(Premium Prep) Aviatrix ACE Exam Real Questions - Strengthen Your Exam Success

Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE)

• ACE is a key enzyme in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), a crucial hormonal cascade regulating blood pressure and fluid balance.
• ACE's primary function is converting angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor. This conversion is a critical step in increasing blood pressure.
• ACE also breaks down bradykinin, a vasodilator, and this further contributes to blood pressure regulation.

ACE Inhibitors

• ACE inhibitors are a class of medications that lower blood pressure by inhibiting ACE activity.
• By preventing the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, ACE inhibitors reduce vasoconstriction, thus lowering blood pressure.
• They also reduce the production of aldosterone, a hormone that promotes sodium and water retention, thereby lessening fluid volume.
• ACE inhibitors are often prescribed for hypertension (high blood pressure), heart failure, and other cardiovascular conditions.

ACE and Blood Pressure Regulation

• ACE plays a central role in the intricate process of blood pressure regulation.
• The RAAS, with ACE at its core, is a complex hormonal system that responds to changes in blood pressure and fluid levels.
• When blood pressure drops, the RAAS is activated. This activation stimulates the release of renin, which triggers the conversion of angiotensinogen to angiotensin I, and subsequently to angiotensin II by ACE.
• Angiotensin II constricts blood vessels, increasing peripheral resistance and blood pressure.
• ACE inhibitors work by blocking this process, reducing blood pressure effectively.

ACE in Heart Failure

• ACE inhibitors are frequently used in the treatment of heart failure.
• By reducing blood pressure and afterload, they limit the strain on the heart.
• They also reduce the production of aldosterone, reducing sodium and water retention, which aids in reducing fluid overload in the heart.
• This helps improve cardiac output and overall heart function.
• ACE inhibitors also improve survival rates in patients with heart failure.

ACE Genetic Variations

• Genetic variations in the ACE gene can influence ACE activity levels.
• Some variants lead to higher ACE activity, potentiating blood pressure and possible risk of hypertension.
• Conversely, other variants can result in lower ACE activity, potentially mitigating blood pressure and certain cardiovascular risks.
• Research is ongoing to fully understand the complex interplay between ACE gene variations and cardiovascular health outcomes.

ACE Functions in the Body

• ACE has multiple roles beyond its primary role in blood pressure regulation.
• ACE also plays a part in immune responses and inflammatory processes.
• Its involvement in these processes is an important area of ongoing research, and scientists are exploring its broader physiological function.
• ACE's functions extend beyond blood pressure, with impacts on various physiological systems, making it an important target for therapeutic intervention.