Dear Colleagues,

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) has a central role in the renin–angiotensin system (RAS). Drugs that that interfere with ACE such as ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), and sacubitril/valsartan have shown benefit in a wide range of conditions, including hypertension, ischemic heart disease, heart failure, renal disease, and diabetes. Since captopril became the first ACE inhibitor in clinical use (approved in 1981), drugs that target ACE have become widely used. Although they appear to be safe, it is important to regularly monitor renal function and serum electrolytes. These drugs are first line therapy to reduce morbidity and mortality through cardio and renoprotective benefits. Newer drugs with improved benefits, have been recently described. New indications such as treatment of arrhythmias have been suggested. This special issue will focus on the specific value of drugs that influence ACE function as well as their present and future role in treatment and prevention.

Prof. Manuel Martinez Selles

Guest Editor