Pulmonary Aerosolized Formulation or Nasal Drops containing Recombinant Human Angiotensin converting Enzyme 2 (rhACE2) as a Potential Therapy against COVID-19

Abstract

The COVID-19 infection and associated severe respiratory distress and mortality have raised public health concerns worldwide. The membrane bound angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is present on various tissues, including the pulmonary epithelium, and is the cellular receptor for the binding of SARS-CoV2. Rapid designing, production, and testing of soluble ACE2-like peptide are highly recommended. We conducted an extensive literature review of COVID-19 and soluble recombinant human (rhACE2). Several reports have indicated the beneficial effect of recombinant human ACE2. In the present work, we explore the blocking action of soluble ACE2 against the spike S protein of SARS-CoV-2 virion in the lungs. We propose localized delivery of soluble ACE2 to the lungs, via aerosolized formulation or nasal drops, due to the limitations of parenteral administration of available bioactive proteins. Based on available literature, we suggest novel aerosolized pulmonary delivery or nasal drops containing soluble recombinant human ACE2- like peptide for therapy or as a prophylactic measure against COVID-19.