ACE2 is a membrane protein with an enzymatic domain located on the outer surface of human cells and is the primary target and receptor for the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19.

While many treatments and cures are seeking to address the virus itself, some researchers are intent to find ways to exploit the ACE2 and prevent the spread of Coronavirus ACE2 play a crucial role in host cell invasion by SARS-CoV-2 and efforts are underway to develop drugs that can block its function in this capacity.