High D-glucose levels induce ACE2 expression via GLUT1 in human airway epithelial cell line Calu-3

Abstract

Highlights SARS-CoV-2 enters the host cell by binding to its receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). ACE2 is expressed in many cell types, including bronchial epithelial cells. High D-glucose medium induced ACE2 expression in bronchial epithelial Calu-3 cells. Glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) is expressed in Calu-3 cells, and GLUT1 inhibition decreased ACE2 expression.

Keywords

• ACE2
• SARS-CoV-2
• COVID-19
• Angiotensin converting enzyme 2
• Glucose transporters