Question 66 from UPSC CSE 2021 - Current Affairs

Question

The term 'ACE2' is talked about in the context of

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: D. spread of viral diseases

Strategy: Spot the scientific context—ACE2 frequently appears in news related to viral outbreaks, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Knowing ACE2 is a receptor in human cells essential for virus entry (not related to plants, satellites, or animal tracking), directly links it to viral disease spread. This eliminates the other options.

Key Info: **About ACE2**
ACE2 (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2) is a membrane-bound enzyme on the surface of many human cell types, including those in the lungs, heart, arteries, kidneys, and intestines.

**Key Roles**
- **Viral Entry:** Acts as a critical entry receptor for coronaviruses like SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2. The virus's spike protein binds to ACE2 to infect host cells.
- **Physiological Function:** Plays a role in the Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS), helping to regulate blood pressure and inflammation.

**Context and Research**
ACE2 gained international prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic as a key focus for pathogenesis studies and potential therapies. Ongoing research aims to combat viral diseases by blocking ACE2-virus interactions and understanding ACE2 regulation. It is not related to genetic modification in plants, navigation satellites, or wildlife radio tracking.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: genes introduced in the genetically modified plants

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: development of India's own satellite navigation system

IASCODEX · Answer

Option C: radio collars for wildlife tracking