Natural product-derived phytochemicals as potential inhibitors of angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2): promising drug candidates for COVID-19

COVID-19 was deemed a global pandemic by the World Health Organization in February 2020. The prevalence of viral diseases worldwide has increased the importance of receiving immediate medical attention. There is currently no specific medication or vaccine under consideration to treat coronavirus infection. For reducing or preventing COVID-19 infections, a number of alternative therapies are anticipated, including the use of synthetic drugs, vaccines, interferon therapy etc. Due to the serious side effects of the utilized drug therapies, it is crucial to comprehend the pathogenesis of the coronavirus and explore safe and efficient treatment. Considering the contribution of plants and herbs in the management of viruses like HIV, Herpes Simplex, MERS-CoV, and influenza, they can be further utilised for COVID-19 treatment. According to reports, SARS-CoV2 infects host cells through Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptors, causing pneumonia linked to COVID-19 as well as acute myocardial injury and long-term cardiovascular damage. A cure for SARS-CoV2 may lie in understanding the receptor, its targets, and the mechanism of viral replication. This review article highlights several plants that have the potential to inhibit ACE2, including Punica granatum, Citrus aurantium, Allium sativum, Piper longum, Curcuma longa, and Coriandrum sativum as well as their extracts and phytoconstituents, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, anthraquinone glycosides, phenolic acids, and others. This review will provide opportunities for researchers to explore the possibility of developing promising dosage forms that will increase the bioavailability and in vivo effectiveness of the lead candidates.