Pepstatin is widely used in biochemical research as a potent inhibitor of aspartic proteases, including pepsin, cathepsin D, and renin. Its application is crucial in studying the role of these enzymes in various biological processes, such as protein digestion, antigen presentation, and disease mechanisms. In laboratory settings, pepstatin is often added to protein extraction buffers to prevent protease activity, ensuring the integrity of proteins during isolation and analysis. Additionally, it serves as a valuable tool in drug discovery and development, particularly in designing inhibitors for aspartic protease-related diseases like hypertension, Alzheimer's, and certain cancers. Its specificity and effectiveness make it an essential reagent in enzymology and proteomics research.