ACE2 acts as the host cell receptor for SARS-CoV, by binding to the spike protein on the viral capsid. Binding to ACE2 stimulates clathrin-dependent endocytosis of both ACE2 and the SARS-CoV, which is essential for viral infection. Binding of the spike protein to ACE2 induces ADAM 17 activity, thereby reducing the amount of ACE2 expressed on the cell surface. Treatment with soluble ACE-2 or anti-ACE-2 antibodies disrupts the interaction between virus and receptor.
