Q. The term 'ACE2' is talked about in the context of (UPSC Prelims 2021)
Answer:
spread of viral diseases
Notes: The correct answer is
[D] spread of viral diseases. The term
ACE2 (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2) gained global prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic as a critical biological component in the infection process.
- Definition and Function: ACE2 is an enzyme located on the surface of many cell types, including those in the lungs, heart, kidneys, and intestines. Its primary physiological role is to regulate blood pressure and inflammation by modulating the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS).
- Viral Entry Point (Statement D - Correct): ACE2 acts as the "cellular doorway" or receptor for certain coronaviruses. Specifically, the SARS-CoV-2 virus uses its spike protein to bind to ACE2 receptors on human cells, allowing the virus to enter and infect the host.
- Genetically Modified Plants (Statement A - Incorrect): While genetic engineering involves various enzymes and promoters, ACE2 is a protein found in humans and other mammals, not a gene typically used for crop modification like the Cry genes in Bt cotton.
- Satellite Navigation (Statement B - Incorrect): India’s navigation system is known as NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation). ACE2 has no relation to aerospace engineering or signal processing.
- Wildlife Tracking (Statement C - Incorrect): Tracking involves GPS, VHF, or GSM technology within radio collars. ACE2 is a biochemical marker and receptor, not a tracking hardware component.