However, although this could reduce the entry of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, a downregulation of ACE2 may still worsen the prognosis in COVID-19, as there is evidence that the ACE2 enzyme also has organ protective functions in hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular disease, as well as against acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) [21]. The gene discussed is ACE2; the disease is hypertensive disorder.