ECE (Endothelin Converting Enzyme) is a membrane-bound metalloproteinase responsible for processing preproendothelin, involved in various physiological and pathological processes such as vasoconstriction, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. The ECE family includes members like ECE-1 and ECE-2, which are primarily located in endothelial cells but also found in other tissues. They regulate vascular tension and blood pressure by cleaving preproendothelin precursors to generate active endothelin. The specific expression and function of ECE genes vary by cell type, tissue environment, and pathological state, with mutations or changes in expression associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.