Open AccessThe protein expression profile of ACE2 in human tissues
Author(s) -
Hikmet Feria,
Méar Loren,
Edvinsson Åsa,
Micke Patrick,
Uhlén Mathias,
Lindskog Cecilia
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
molecular systems biology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 8.523
H-Index - 148
ISSN - 1744-4292
DOI - 10.15252/msb.20209610
Subject(s) - biology , cell , angiotensin converting enzyme 2 , microbiology and biotechnology , cell type , receptor , immunology , virology , disease , covid-19 , pathology , genetics , infectious disease (medical specialty) , medicine
Abstract The novel SARS‐coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) poses a global challenge on healthcare and society. For understanding the susceptibility for SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, the cell type‐specific expression of the host cell surface receptor is necessary. The key protein suggested to be involved in host cell entry is angiotensin I converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Here, we report the expression pattern of ACE2 across > 150 different cell types corresponding to all major human tissues and organs based on stringent immunohistochemical analysis. The results were compared with several datasets both on the mRNA and protein level. ACE2 expression was mainly observed in enterocytes, renal tubules, gallbladder, cardiomyocytes, male reproductive cells, placental trophoblasts, ductal cells, eye, and vasculature. In the respiratory system, the expression was limited, with no or only low expression in a subset of cells in a few individuals, observed by one antibody only. Our data constitute an important resource for further studies on SARS‐CoV‐2 host cell entry, in order to understand the biology of the disease and to aid in the development of effective treatments to the viral infection.