Angiotensin-converting enzyme
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE, /ˈændʒioʊˌtɛnsɪn kənˈvɜːrtɪŋ ˈɛnzaɪm/) is an enzyme that helps regulate blood pressure. It is part of the renin-angiotensin system and converts angiotensin I to the active vasoconstrictor angiotensin II.
Etymology
The term "angiotensin-converting enzyme" is derived from "angiotensin", a peptide hormone that controls vasoconstriction and blood pressure, and "converting enzyme", which refers to its role in converting angiotensin I to angiotensin II.
Function
Angiotensin-converting enzyme plays a crucial role in the renin-angiotensin system, which regulates blood pressure and fluid balance. The enzyme converts angiotensin I, an inactive hormone, into angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor. This conversion process helps to increase blood pressure when it is too low.
Related Terms
- Renin-angiotensin system: The system in which ACE plays a crucial role.
- Angiotensin I: The inactive hormone that ACE converts into angiotensin II.
- Angiotensin II: The active hormone that ACE produces, which acts as a potent vasoconstrictor.
- Vasoconstrictor: A substance, like angiotensin II, that narrows (constricts) blood vessels, thereby increasing blood pressure.
See Also
- ACE inhibitors: A class of drugs used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure, which work by reducing the production of angiotensin II.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Angiotensin-converting enzyme
- Wikipedia's article - Angiotensin-converting enzyme
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