Neprilysin (NEP) is a zinc-dependent metalloprotease crucial for regulating the metabolism of bioactive peptides such as angiotensin and enkephalins. It is mainly expressed in the kidneys, lungs, endothelial cells, and the brain, participating in physiological processes such as blood pressure regulation, pain perception, and memory formation. Its structure includes a short intracellular tail, a transmembrane region, and a large extracellular catalytic domain. The gene expression of NEP is regulated by various factors, and mutations or changes in activity are associated with diseases such as hypertension, heart failure, and Alzheimer's disease. As a drug target, NEP inhibitors are used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.