Fig. 1

ACE2 is a key enzyme in the RAS, catalyzing the metabolism of Ang II to Ang(1-7) and Ang I to Ang(1-9). ACE2 also mediates degradation of ACE-catalyzed breakdown products, Des-arg9-Bk (B1R agonist) and Lys-des-arg9-Bk. The net result of ACE2 in these two systems is to counterbalance ACE/Ang II/AT1R and Bradykinin/Des-arg9-Bk/B1R pathways. Through its cellular binding and entry mechanisms, SARS-CoV-2 is proposed to result in a reduction of ACE2, leading to elevations in Ang I and II, and leading to AT1R stimulation, and Des-arg9-Bk leading to B1R stimulation thus exacerbating inflammation, vascular leakage, and pro-fibrotic events. Potential therapeutics include those targeted to angiotensin and bradykinin system related peptides, in addition to peptides targeting the ACE2-viral spike (S) protein interaction