ACE 2 Proteins

Why in news?

• Researchers have developed an experimental chewing gum that traps SARS-CoV-2 viral particles, the coronavirus that causes Covid-19.
• Scientists designed the gum with plant-derived ACE2 proteins with the novel idea that viral particles will latch onto the gum, minimizing the ability for the virus to spread from one’s mouth to others

More about the news:

• The gum may help lower viral transmission when infected individuals breathe, talk, or cough. The experimental gum traps viral particles through copies of a receptor called the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors riddled along its surface.

What are ACE 2 proteins?

• ACE2 proteins are found lining the surfaces of some cells and epithelial tissues in the body, such as the lungs, heart, blood vessels, kidneys, liver, and gastrointestinal tract.
• Using the spike-like protein on its surface, the SARS-CoV-2 virus binds to ACE2 – like a key being inserted into a lock – prior to entry and infection of cells. Hence, ACE2 acts as a cellular doorway – a receptor – for the virus that causes COVID-19.

PRACTICE QUESTION

The term ‘ACE2’, widely discussed in news, is associated with:

(a) Treatment of waste water

(b) Genetically modified crop

(c) Spread of Covid 19

(d) Solar energy generation

                C

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