“ACE2 and Coronavirus - state of art”

Introduction: The year 2020 is characterized by a pandemic due to a novel Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19), which mostly afflicts aged patients and causes death. ACE2 (Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2) acts as a receptor of the virus, allowing its passage in human cells. Aim: The purpose of the study is to analyze the literature so far and searching for ex-vivo studies that have been carried out on human tissues. Materials and Methods: In this review, it is investigated, through the material found on Pubmed, the relationship between ACE2 and Coronavirus, up to May 2020. Results: Even if several reviews are about the COVID-19, research articles are mainly focused on the other Coronavirus types. No “in vivo studies” on human epithelium shows viral replication. Conclusion: Results suggest more laboratory research understand the mechanism of action of the new Coronavirus, to counteract its negative effects on human health.