Ferroptosis: A Regulated Cell Death Nexus Linking Metabolism, Redox Biology, and Disease

Ganoderic acid A mitigates dopaminergic neuron ferroptosis via inhibiting NCOA4-mediated ferritinophagy in Parkinson's disease mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ganoderma lucidum, a renowned tonic traditional Chinese medicine, is widely recognized for the exceptional activity in soothing nerves and nourishing the brain. It has been extensively employed to alleviate various neurological disorders, notably Parkinson's disease (PD).

AIM OF THE STUDY

To appraise the antiparkinsonian effect of GAA, the main bioactive constituent of G. lucidum, and clarify the molecular mechanism through the perspective of ferritinophagy-mediated dopaminergic neuron ferroptosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PD mouse and cell models were established using 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) and 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+), respectively. Cell viability, behavioral tests and immunofluorescence analysis were performed to evaluate the neurotoxicity, motor dysfunction and dopaminergic loss, respectively. Biochemical assay kits were used to determine the levels of iron, lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), total ROS and glutathione (GSH). Western blot and immunofluorescence were applied to detect the expressions of nuclear receptor co-activator 4 (NCOA4), ferritin heavy chain 1 (FTH1), p62 and LC3B. Additionally, NCOA4-overexpressing plasmid vector was constructed to verify the inhibitory effect of GAA on the neurotoxicity and ferroptosis-related parameters in PD models.

RESULTS

GAA significantly mitigated MPP+/MPTP-induced neurotoxicity, motor dysfunction and dopaminergic neuron loss (p＜0.01 or p＜0.05). In contrast to MPP+/MPTP treatment, GAA treatment decreased the levels of iron, MDA, lipid and total ROS, while increasing the GSH level. GAA also reduced the levels of NCOA4 and LC3B, and enhanced the expressions of FTH1 and p62 in PD models (p＜0.01 or p＜0.05). However, the protective effect of GAA against the neurotoxicity, NCOA4-mediated ferritinophagy and ferroptosis in PD model was abolished by the overexpression of NCOA4 (p＜0.01).

CONCLUSION

GAA exerted a protective effect on PD, and this effect was achieved by suppressing dopaminergic neuron ferroptosis through the inhibition of NCOA4-mediated ferritinophagy.

Beneficial effects of oxymatrine from Sophora flavescens on alleviating Ulcerative colitis by improving inflammation and ferroptosis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Sophora flavescens is often used in traditional Chinese medicine for skin issues, diarrhea, and vaginal itching (Plant names have been checked with http://www.the/plant/list.org on Feb 22nd, 2024). Oxymatrine (OY), a major bioactive compound from Sophora flavescens, is commonly used in China to treat ulcerative colitis, but its mechanisms are still unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Recent studies have found that the crosstalk between ferroptosis and inflammation is an important mechanism in the pathogenesis of UC. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential underlying mechanisms of OY treatment on DSS-induced ulcerative colitis, specifically focusing on the processes of ferroptosis and inflammation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Bioinformatics methods were used to identify key targets of OY for ferroptosis and inflammation in ulcerative colitis, based on GEO data and FerrDb database. Then, 4% DSS solution was used to induce UC model. OY's impact on morphological changes was assessed using colon views, Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Ferroptosis phenotype index and inflammations factors were detected by ELISA or chem-bio detection kits. The screen out hub related genes about ferroptosis and inflammation were verified by RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and western blotting (WB) respectively.

RESULTS

Bioinformatics results show that there are 16 key target genes involved in ferroptosis and inflammation interaction of OY treatment for UC, such as IL6, NOS2, IDO1, SOCS1, and DUOX. The results of animal experiments show that OY could depress inflammatory factors (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, HMGB1, and NLRP3) and reduce iron deposition (Fe2+, GSH). Additionally, OY suppressed the hub genes or proteins expression involved in ferroptosis and inflammation, including IL-1β, IL-6, NOS2, HIF1A, IDO1, TIMP1, and DUOX2.

CONCLUSION

This present study combines bioinformatics, molecular biology, and animal experimental research evidently demonstrated that OY attenuates UC by improving ferroptosis and inflammation, mainly target to the expression of IL-1β, IL-6, NOS2, HIF1A, IDO1, TIMP1, and DUOX2.

A ferroptosis amplifier based on triple-enhanced lipid peroxides accumulation strategy for effective pancreatic cancer therapy

As an iron dependent regulatory cell death process driven by excessive lipid peroxides (LPO), ferroptosis is recognized as a powerful weapon for pancreatic cancer (PC) therapy. However, the tumor microenvironment (TME) with hypoxia and elevated glutathione (GSH) expression not only inhibits LPO production, but also induces glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) mediated LPO clearance, which greatly compromise the therapeutic outcomes of ferroptosis. To address these issues, herein, a novel triple-enhanced ferroptosis amplifier (denoted as Zal@HM-PTBC) is rationally designed. After intravenous injection, the overexpressed H2O2/GSH in TME induces the collapse of Zal@HM-PTBC and triggers the production of oxygen and reactive oxygen species (ROS), which synergistically amplify the degree of lipid peroxidation (broaden sources). Concurrently, GSH consumption because of the degradation of the hollow manganese dioxide (HM) significantly weakens the activity of GPX4, resulting in a decrease in LPO clearance (reduce expenditure). Moreover, the loading and site-directed release of zalcitabine further promotes autophagy-dependent LPO accumulation (enhance effectiveness). Both in vitro and in vivo results validated that the ferroptosis amplifier demonstrated superior specificity and favorable therapeutic responses. Overall, this triple-enhanced LPO accumulation strategy demonstrates the ability to facilitate the efficacy of ferroptosis, injecting vigorous vitality into the treatment of PC.

Metformin alleviates spinal cord injury by inhibiting nerve cell ferroptosis through upregulation of heme oxygenase-1 expression

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202409000-00037/figure1/v/2024-01-16T170235Z/r/image-tiff Previous studies have reported upregulation of heme oxygenase-1 in different central nervous system injury models. Heme oxygenase-1 plays a critical anti-inflammatory role and is essential for regulating cellular redox homeostasis. Metformin is a classic drug used to treat type 2 diabetes that can inhibit ferroptosis. Previous studies have shown that, when used to treat cardiovascular and digestive system diseases, metformin can also upregulate heme oxygenase-1 expression. Therefore, we hypothesized that heme oxygenase-1 plays a significant role in mediating the beneficial effects of metformin on neuronal ferroptosis after spinal cord injury. To test this, we first performed a bioinformatics analysis based on the GEO database and found that heme oxygenase-1 was upregulated in the lesion of rats with spinal cord injury. Next, we confirmed this finding in a rat model of T9 spinal cord compression injury that exhibited spinal cord nerve cell ferroptosis. Continuous intraperitoneal injection of metformin for 14 days was found to both upregulate heme oxygenase-1 expression and reduce neuronal ferroptosis in rats with spinal cord injury. Subsequently, we used a lentivirus vector to knock down heme oxygenase-1 expression in the spinal cord, and found that this significantly reduced the effect of metformin on ferroptosis after spinal cord injury. Taken together, these findings suggest that metformin inhibits neuronal ferroptosis after spinal cord injury, and that this effect is partially dependent on upregulation of heme oxygenase-1.

Identification of the ferroptosis-related prognostic gene signature in mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, an uncommon yet highly aggressive malignant neoplasm, presents challenges in the effectiveness of current therapeutic approaches. Ferroptosis, a non-apoptotic mechanism of cellular demise, exhibits a substantial association with the progression of diverse cancer forms. It is important to acknowledge that there exists a significant association between ferroptosis and the advancement of various forms of cancer. Nevertheless, the precise role of ferroptosis regulatory factors within the context of mesothelioma remains enigmatic. In our investigation, we initially scrutinized the prognostic significance of 24 ferroptosis regulatory factors in the realm of mesothelioma. Our observations unveiled that heightened expression levels of CARS1, CDKN1A, TFRC, FANCD2, FDFT1, HSPB1, SLC1A5, SLC7A11, coupled with reduced DPP4 expression, were indicative of an unfavorable prognosis. Built upon the nine previously discussed prognostic genes, the ferroptosis prognostic model offers a reliable means to forecast mesothelioma patients' survival with a substantial degree of precision. Furthermore, a notable correlation emerged between these prognostic ferroptosis regulators and parameters such as immune cell infiltration, tumor mutation burden, microsatellite instability, and PD-L1 expression in the context of mesothelioma. Within this cadre of nine ferroptosis regulatory factors with prognostic relevance, FANCD2 exhibited the most pronounced prognostic influence, as elucidated by our analyses. Subsequently, we executed a validation process employing clinical specimens sourced from our institution, thus confirming that heightened FANCD2 expression is a discernible harbinger of an adverse prognosis in the context of mesothelioma. In vitro experiments revealed that knocking down FANCD2 markedly suppressed the proliferation, migration, and ability of mesothelioma cells to attract immune cells. Furthermore, our findings also showed that reducing FANCD2 levels heightened the vulnerability of mesothelioma cells to inducers of ferroptosis. Furthermore, an extensive pan-cancer analysis uncovered a robust association between FANCD2 and the gene expression linked to immune checkpoints, thereby signifying an adverse prognosis across a broad spectrum of cancer types. Additional research is warranted to validate these findings.

Boric acid Increases Susceptibility to Chemotherapy by Targeting the Ferritinophagy Signaling Pathway in TMZ Resistant Glioblastoma Cells

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a common and highly lethal form of brain cancer. Temozolomide (TMZ) is the primary chemotherapy used for GBM, but it has limited effectiveness, with about half of the patients developing resistance. Iron regulatory proteins (IRPs) modulate genes involved in iron metabolism, while the nuclear receptor coactivator 4 (NCOA4) controls iron metabolism through a process called ferritinophagy. In this study, we investigated whether boric acid increases chemosensitivity mediated by ferritinophagy via the NCOA4 and IRP2 signaling pathways in TMZ-resistant GBM cells. First, we generated TMZ-resistant GBM cells (A172-R and T98G-R cells). Next, we investigated the effects of boric acid on cell viability, proliferation, cell cycle, and cell morphology in these cells. Additionally, following boric acid treatment, we analyzed the expression and protein levels of various biochemical markers in these cells. Boric acid treatment in A172-R and T98G-R cells suppressed cell viability and proliferation, arrested these cells in the G1/G0 cell cycle, and induced morphological differences. Boric acid increased NCOA4, IRP2, iron, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in A172-R and T98G-R cells, while glutathione (GSH) and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPx4) levels decreased. Moreover, boric acid treatment increased intracellular iron levels and lipid peroxidation by inducing NCOA4 and IRP2 expression levels in TMZ-resistant cells. According to our results, boric acid may regulate chemosensitivity in A172-R and T98G-R cells mediated by NCOA4 and IRP2. In conclusion, the manipulative effects of boric acid on the ferritinophagy pathway hold the potential to sensitize TMZ-resistant GBM cells to chemotherapy.

Echinatin suppresses cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma by targeting GSTM3-mediated ferroptosis

BACKGROUND

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is one of the most common skin cancers for which effective drugs are urgently needed. Echinatin, a natural compound extracted from Glycyrrhiza plants, has shown promising antitumour effects. However, the efficacy and the direct target of echinatin in cSCC remain unclear.

PURPOSE

This study conducted a systematic investigation of the antitumour effects of echinatin on cSCC and the underlying mechanisms involved.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Three cSCC cell lines, a xenograft model, and a UV-induced cSCC mouse model were used to investigate the potential protective effects of echinatin. The interactions between echinatin and glutathione S-transferase mu3 (GSTM3) and between echinatin and peroxiredoxin-2 (PRDX2) were evaluated by a proteome microarray assay, pull-down LC‒MS/MS analysis, surface plasmon resonance, and molecular docking. The potential mechanisms of GSTM3-mediated echinatin activity were analysed by using western blotting, lentivirus infection and small interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection.

RESULTS

In this study, we found that echinatin inhibited the proliferation and migration of cSCC cells but had no cytotoxic effect on primary human keratinocytes. Furthermore, echinatin significantly inhibited tumour growth in vivo. Mechanistically, our data showed that echinatin could directly bind to GSTM3 and PRDX2. Notably, echinatin inhibited GSTM3 and PRDX2 levels by promoting their proteasomal degradation, which led to the disruption of ROS production. We then revealed that echinatin increased mitochondrial ROS production by inhibiting GSTM3. Moreover, echinatin triggered ferroptosis by inhibiting GSTM3-mediated ferroptosis negative regulation (FNR) proteins. In addition, echinatin regulated GSTM3-mediated ROS/MAPK signalling.

CONCLUSION

Echinatin has good antitumour effects both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, our findings indicate that GSTM3 and PRDX2 could function as viable targets of echinatin in cSCC. Consequently, echinatin represents a novel treatment for cSCC through the targeting of GSTM3-mediated ferroptosis.

Multifunctional fluorescent probe for simultaneous revealing Cys and ONOO- dynamic correlation in the ferroptosis

Ferroptosis is a type of lipid peroxidation-induced apoptosis brought on by imbalances in iron metabolism and redox. It involves both the thiol-associated anti-ferroptosis pathway and the excessive buildup of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which stimulates the ferroptosis pathway. Determining the precise control mechanism of ferroptosis requires examining the dynamic connection between reactive sulfur species (RSS) and ROS. Cysteine (Cys) and peroxynitrite (ONOO-) are highly active redox species in organisms and play dynamic roles in the ferroptosis process. In this study, a coumarin dye was conjugated with specific response sites for Cys and ONOO-, enabling the simultaneous detection of Cys and ONOO- through the green and red fluorescence channels, respectively (λem = 498 nm for Cys and λem = 565 nm for ONOO-). Using the probe LXB, we monitored the changes in Cys and ONOO- levels in the ferroptosis pathway induced by erastin. The results demonstrate a significant generation of ONOO- and a noticeable decrease in intracellular Cys levels at the beginning upon erastin treatment and finally maintains a relatively low level. This study presents the first probe to investigate the intracellular redox modulation and control between Cys and ONOO- during ferroptosis, providing valuable insights into the potential mutual correlation between Cys and ONOO- in this process.

Ferroptosis in cancer (Review)

Ferroptosis is a type of programmed cell death depending on iron and reactive oxygen species. This unique cell death process has attracted a great deal of attention in the field of cancer research over the past decade. Research on the association of ferroptosis signal pathways and cancer development indicated that targeting ferroptosis has great potential for cancer therapy. In the present study, the latest research progress of ferroptosis was reviewed, focusing on the relationship between ferroptosis and the development of cancer, in order to further promote the clinical application of ferroptosis in cancer.

Diagnostic and predictive significance of the ferroptosis-related gene TXNIP in lung adenocarcinoma stem cells based on multi-omics

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer stands as the foremost cause of cancer-related fatalities globally. The presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) poses a challenge, rendering current targeted tumor therapies ineffective. This study endeavors to investigate a novel therapeutic approach focusing on ferroptosis and delves into the expression of ferroptosis-related genes within lung CSCs.

METHODS

We systematically examined RNA-seq datasets derived from lung tumor cells (LTCs) and lung cancer stem cells (LSCs), as previously investigated in our research. Our focus was on analyzing differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to ferroptosis. Utilizing the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO), we conducted functional analysis of these ferroptosis-related DEGs. Additionally, we employed protein‒protein interaction networks to identify hub genes. LC‒MS/MS analysis of LTCs and LSCs was conducted to pinpoint the crucial ferroptosis-related gene-thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP).Further, we delved into the immune cell infiltration landscape of LTCs and LSCs, examining the correlation between TXNIP and lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) using data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. To complement these findings, we measured the expression levels of TXNIP, glutathione peroxidase 4(GPX4), nuclear receptor coactivator 4 (NCOA4) in LUAD tissues through immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining.

RESULTS

A total of 651 DEGs were identified, with 17 of them being ferroptosis-related DEGs. These seventeen genes were categorized into four groups: driver genes, suppressor genes, unclassified genes, and inducer genes. Enrichment analysis revealed significant associations with oxidative stress, cell differentiation, tissue development, and cell death processes. The RNA-seq analysis demonstrated consistent gene expression patterns with protein expression, as evidenced by mass spectrometry analysis. Among the identified genes, SFN and TXNIP were singled out as hub genes, with TXNIP showing particularly noteworthy expression. The expression of the ferroptosis-related gene TXNIP exhibited correlations with the presence of an immunosuppressive microenvironment, TNM stages, and the degree of histological differentiation.Also, the ferroptosis-markers GPX4 and NCOA4 displayed correlations with LUAD. This comprehensive analysis underscores the significance of TXNIP in the context of ferroptosis-related processes and their potential implications in cancer development and progression.

CONCLUSION

The investigation conducted in this study systematically delved into the role of the ferroptosis-related gene TXNIP in Lung CSCs. The identification of TXNIP as a potentially valuable biomarker in this context could have significant implications for refining prognostic assessments and optimizing therapeutic strategies for advanced lung cancer.

Physical Exercise-Induced Activation of NRF2 and BDNF as a Promising Strategy for Ferroptosis Regulation in Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. Ferroptosis, an iron-dependent form of regulated cell death, may contribute to the progression of PD owing to an unbalanced brain redox status. Physical exercise is a complementary therapy that can modulate ferroptosis in PD by regulating the redox system through the activation of nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NRF2) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling. However, the precise effects of physical exercise on ferroptosis in PD remain unclear. In this review, we explored how physical exercise influences NRF2 and BDNF signaling and affects ferroptosis in PD. We further investigated relevant publications over the past two decades by searching the PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases using keywords related to physical exercise, PD, ferroptosis, and neurotrophic factor antioxidant signaling. This review provides insights into current research gaps and demonstrates the necessity for future research to elucidate the specific mechanisms by which exercise regulates ferroptosis in PD, including the assessment of different exercise protocols and their long-term effects. Ultimately, exploring these aspects may lead to the development of improved exercise interventions for the better management of patients with PD.

O-GlcNAcylation regulates the stability of transferrin receptor (TFRC) to control the ferroptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma cells

Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent programmed cell death (PCD) enforced by lipid peroxidation accumulation. Transferrin receptor (TFRC), one of the signature proteins of ferroptosis, is abundantly expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, post-translational modification (PTM) of TFRC and the underlying mechanisms for ferroptosis regulation remain less understood. In this study, we found that TFRC undergoes O-GlcNAcylation, influencing Erastin-induced ferroptosis sensitivity in hepatocytes. Further mechanistic studies found that Erastin can trigger de-O-GlcNAcylation of TFRC at serine 687 (Ser687), which diminishes the binding of ubiquitin E3 ligase membrane-associated RING-CH8 (MARCH8) and decreases polyubiquitination on lysine 665 (Lys665), thereby enhancing TFRC stability that favors labile iron accumulation. Therefore, our findings report O-GlcNAcylation on an important regulatory protein of ferroptosis and reveal an intriguing mechanism by which HCC ferroptosis is controlled by an iron metabolism pathway.

Mechanism and functional verification of genes by virulence factors of P. gingivalis in ferroptosis

OBJECTIVE

Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) is a key etiological agent in periodontitis and functions as a facultative intracellular microorganism and involves many virulence factors. These virulence factors participate in multiple intracellular processes, like ferroptosis, the mechanistic underpinnings remain to be elucidated. Aim of this study was to investigate the effects of virulence factors on the host cells.

DESIGN

Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were treated with 4% paraformaldehyde-fixed P. gingivalis, and subsequent alterations in gene expression were profiled via RNA-seq. Further, the molecules associated with ferroptosis were quantitatively analyzed using qRT-PCR and Western blot.

RESULTS

A total of 1125 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, encompassing 225 upregulated and 900 downregulated. Ferroptosis was conspicuously represented in the kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis, with notable upregulation of Heme oxygenase 1 (HMOX1), Ferritin light chain (FTL), and Solute carrier family 3 member 2 (SLC3A2) and downregulation of Scavenger receptor class A member 5 (SCARA5) and glutaminase (GLS). Random selection of DEGs for validation through qRT-PCR corroborated the RNA-Seq data (R2 = 0.93). Kelch like ECH associated protein 1 (Keap1) protein expression decreased after 4 and 8 h, while NFE2 like bZIP transcription factor 2 (Nrf2) and HMOX1 were elevated, with significant nuclear translocation of Nrf2.

CONCLUSIONS

The virulence factors of P. gingivalis may potentially instigating ferroptosis through activation of the Keap1-Nrf2-HMOX1 signaling cascade, in conjunction with modulating the expression of other ferroptosis-associated elements. Further research is necessary to achieve a thorough comprehension of these complex molecular interactions.

The engineered exosomes targeting ferroptosis: A novel approach to reverse immune checkpoint inhibitors resistance

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been extensively used in immunological therapy primarily due to their ability to prolong patient survival. Although ICIs have achieved success in cancer treatment, the resistance of ICIs should not be overlooked. Ferroptosis is a newly found cell death mode characterized by the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione (GSH) depletion, and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) inactivation, which has been demonstrated to be beneficial to immunotherapy and combining ferroptosis and ICIs to exploit new immunotherapies may reverse ICIs resistance. Exosomes act as mediators in cell-to-cell communication that may regulate ferroptosis to influence immunotherapy through the secretion of biological molecules. Thus, utilizing exosomes to target ferroptosis has opened up exciting possibilities for reversing ICIs resistance. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms of ferroptosis improving ICIs therapy and how exosomes regulate ferroptosis through adjusting iron metabolism, blocking the ROS accumulation, controlling ferroptosis defense systems, and influencing classic signaling pathways and how engineered exosomes target ferroptosis and improve ICIs efficiency.

Targeting ferroptosis in neuroimmune and neurodegenerative disorders for the development of novel therapeutics

Neuroimmune and neurodegenerative ailments impose a substantial societal burden. Neuroimmune disorders involve the intricate regulatory interactions between the immune system and the central nervous system. Prominent examples of neuroimmune disorders encompass multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica. Neurodegenerative diseases result from neuronal degeneration or demyelination in the brain or spinal cord, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The precise underlying pathogenesis of these conditions remains incompletely understood. Ferroptosis, a programmed form of cell death characterised by lipid peroxidation and iron overload, plays a pivotal role in neuroimmune and neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we provide a detailed overview of ferroptosis, its mechanisms, pathways, and regulation during the progression of neuroimmune and neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, we summarise the impact of ferroptosis on neuroimmune-related cells (T cells, B cells, neutrophils, and macrophages) and neural cells (glial cells and neurons). Finally, we explore the potential therapeutic implications of ferroptosis inhibitors in diverse neuroimmune and neurodegenerative diseases.

Fibroblast growth factor 21 inhibits ferroptosis following spinal cord injury by regulating heme oxygenase-1

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202407000-00037/figure1/v/2023-11-20T171125Z/r/image-tiff

Interfering with the ferroptosis pathway is a new strategy for the treatment of spinal cord injury. Fibroblast growth factor 21 can inhibit ferroptosis and promote neurofunctional recovery, while heme oxygenase-1 is a regulator of iron and reactive oxygen species homeostasis. The relationship between heme oxygenase-1 and ferroptosis remains controversial. In this study, we used a spinal cord injury rat model to show that the levels of fibroblast growth factor 21 in spinal cord tissue decreased after spinal cord injury. In addition, there was a significant aggravation of ferroptosis and a rapid increase in heme oxygenase-1 expression after spinal cord injury. Further, heme oxygenase-1 aggravated ferroptosis after spinal cord injury, while fibroblast growth factor 21 inhibited ferroptosis by downregulating heme oxygenase-1. Thus, the activation of fibroblast growth factor 21 may provide a potential treatment for spinal cord injury. These findings could provide a new potential mechanistic explanation for fibroblast growth factor 21 in the treatment of spinal cord injury.

Induction of ferroptosis: A new strategy for the control of bacterial infections

The continued rise of drug-resistant bacterial infections heightens a threat of a pandemic of antimicrobial resistance to the global health. The urgency of infection control against antimicrobial-resistant bacteria is evident. Ferroptosis, a newly defined form of iron-dependent cell death characterized by lipid peroxidation, has garnered substantial interest since this programmed cell death was associated with pathophysiological processes of many diseases. Exploring whether ferroptosis could be utilized in infectious diseases holds significant importance for discovering novel antimicrobial approaches. Recent years have witnessed significant progress with respect to elucidating the mechanisms that govern ferroptosis induction and its roles in bacterial pathogenesis and host-pathogen interactions. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms of targeting ferroptosis and/or iron homeostasis for the control of antimicrobial-resistant bacterial infections. These implications may inform and enable effective therapeutic strategies against pathogen infection and provide novel insights into the potential applications of ferroptosis to address the global bacterial resistance crisis.

Mechanism of targeting the mTOR pathway to regulate ferroptosis in NSCLC with different EGFR mutations

Patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-activating mutations can be treated with EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Although EGFR-TKI-targeted drugs bring survival promotion in patients with EGFR mutations, drug resistance is inevitable, so it is urgent to explore new treatments to overcome drug resistance. In addition, wild-type EGFR lacks targeted drugs, and new targeted therapies need to be explored. Ferroptosis is a key research direction for overcoming drug resistance. However, the role and mechanism of regulating ferroptosis in different EGFR-mutant NSCLC types remains unclear. In the present study, H1975 (EGFR T790M/L858R mutant), A549 (EGFR wild-type) and H3255 (EGFR L858R mutant) NSCLC cell lines were used. The expression of ferroptosis markers in these cell lines was detected using western blotting and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. Cell viability was determined using the MTT assay and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were measured using flow cytometry. The results showed that, compared with EGFR wild-type/sensitive mutant cells, EGFR-resistant mutant cells were more sensitive to the ferroptosis inducer, erastin. Furthermore, the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor, everolimus (RAD001), induced cell death in all three cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. The ferroptosis inhibitor, ferrostatin-1, could reverse cell death in EGFR-resistant mutant and EGFR wild-type cells induced by RAD001, but could not reverse cell death in EGFR-sensitive mutant cells. Compared with EGFR wild-type/sensitive mutant cells, EGFR-resistant mutant cells were more sensitive to RAD001 combined with erastin. In addition, a high-dose of RAD001 reduced the expression levels of ferritin heavy-chain polypeptide 1 (FTH1), glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and ferroportin and significantly increased ROS and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in EGFR-resistant mutant and EGFR wild-type cells. In the present study, GPX4 inhibitor only or combined with RAD001 inhibited the AKT/mTOR pathway in EGFR-resistant mutant cells. Therefore, the results of the present study suggested that inhibition of the mTOR pathway may downregulate the expression of ferroptosis-related proteins in EGFR-resistant and EGFR wild-type NSCLC cells, increase the ROS and MDA levels and ultimately induce ferroptosis.

Decoding ferroptosis: Revealing the hidden assassin behind cardiovascular diseases

The discovery of regulatory cell death processes has driven innovation in cardiovascular disease (CVD) therapeutic strategies. Over the past decade, ferroptosis, an iron-dependent form of regulated cell death driven by excessive lipid peroxidation, has been shown to drive the development of multiple CVDs. This review provides insights into the evolution of the concept of ferroptosis, the similarities and differences with traditional modes of programmed cell death (e.g., apoptosis, autophagy, and necrosis), as well as the core regulatory mechanisms of ferroptosis (including cystine/glutamate transporter blockade, imbalance of iron metabolism, and lipid peroxidation). In addition, it provides not only a detailed review of the role of ferroptosis and its therapeutic potential in widely studied CVDs such as coronary atherosclerotic heart disease, myocardial infarction, myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury, heart failure, cardiomyopathy, and aortic aneurysm but also an overview of the phenomenon and therapeutic perspectives of ferroptosis in lesser-addressed CVDs such as cardiac valvulopathy, pulmonary hypertension, and sickle cell disease. This article aims to integrate this knowledge to provide a comprehensive view of ferroptosis in a wide range of CVDs and to drive innovation and progress in therapeutic strategies in this field.

Apoptosis and NETotic cell death affect diabetic nephropathy independently: An study integrative study encompassing bioinformatics, machine learning, and experimental validation

OBJECTIVE

Although programmed cell death (PCD) and diabetic nephropathy (DN) are intrinsically conneted, the interplay among various PCD forms remains elusive. In this study, We aimed at identifying independently DN-associated PCD pathways and biomarkers relevant to the related pathogenesis.

METHODS

We acquired DN-related datasets from the GEO database and identified PCDs independently correlated with DN (DN-PCDs) through single-sample Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (ssGSEA) as well as, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Subsequently, applying differential expression analysis, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), and Mfuzz cluster analysis, we filtered the DN-PCDs pertinent to DN onset and progression. The convergence of various machine learning techniques ultimately spotlighted hub genes, substantiated through dataset meta-analyses and experimental validations, thereby confirming hub genes and related pathways expression consistencies.

RESULTS

We harmonized four DN-related datasets (GSE1009, GSE142025, GSE30528, and GSE30529) post-batch-effect removal for subsequent analyses. Our differential expression analysis yielded 709 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), comprising 446 upregulated and 263 downregulated DEGs. Based on our ssGSEA as well as univariate and multivariate logistic regressions, apoptosis and NETotic cell death were appraised as independent risk factors for DN (Odds Ratio > 1, p < 0.05). Next, we further refined 588 apoptosis- and NETotic cell death-associated genes through WGCNA and Mfuzz analysis, resulting in the identification of 17 DN-PCDs. Integrating protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analyses, network topology, and machine learning, we pinpointed hub genes (e.g., IL33, RPL11, and CX3CR1) as significant DN risk factors with expression corroborating in subsequent meta-analyses and experimental validations. Our GSEA enrichment analysis discerned differential enrichments between DN and control samples within pathways such as IL2/STAT5, IL6/JAK/STAT3, TNF-α via NF-κB, apoptosis, and oxidative phosphorylation, with related proteins such as IL2, IL6, and TNFα, which we subsequently submitted to experimental verification.

CONCLUSION

Innovatively stemming from from PCD interactions, in this study, we discerned PCDs with an independent impact on DN: apoptosis and NETotic cell death. We further screened DN evolution- and progression-related biomarkers, i.e. IL33, RPL11, and CX3CR1, all of which we empirically validated. This study not only poroposes a PCD-centric perspective for DN studies but also provides evidence for PCD-mediated immune cell infiltration exploration in DN regulation. Our results could motivate further exploration of DN pathogenesis, such as how the inflammatory microenvironment mediates NETotic cell death in DN regulation, representing a promising direction for future research.

PAFAH2 suppresses synchronized ferroptosis to ameliorate acute kidney injury

Synchronized ferroptosis contributes to nephron loss in acute kidney injury (AKI). However, the propagation signals and the underlying mechanisms of the synchronized ferroptosis for renal tubular injury remain unresolved. Here we report that platelet-activating factor (PAF) and PAF-like phospholipids (PAF-LPLs) mediated synchronized ferroptosis and contributed to AKI. The emergence of PAF and PAF-LPLs in ferroptosis caused the instability of biomembranes and signaled the cell death of neighboring cells. This cascade could be suppressed by PAF-acetylhydrolase (II) (PAFAH2) or by addition of antibodies against PAF. Genetic knockout or pharmacological inhibition of PAFAH2 increased PAF production, augmented synchronized ferroptosis and exacerbated ischemia/reperfusion (I/R)-induced AKI. Notably, intravenous administration of wild-type PAFAH2 protein, but not its enzymatically inactive mutants, prevented synchronized tubular cell death, nephron loss and AKI. Our findings offer an insight into the mechanisms of synchronized ferroptosis and suggest a possibility for the preventive intervention of AKI.

Cadmium aggravates liver injury by activating ferroptosis and neutrophil extracellular traps formation in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

Cadmium (Cd) is a pervasive environmental contaminant and a significant risk factor for liver injury. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the involvement of ferroptosis and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in Cd-induced liver injury in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), and to explore its underlying mechanism. Cd-induced liver injury was associated with increased total iron, malondialdehyde (MDA), and Acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 4 (ACSL4), together with reduced levels of glutathione, glutathione peroxidase-4a (Gpx4a), and solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11), which are all hallmarks of ferroptosis. Moreover, liver hyperemia, neutrophil infiltration, increased inflammatory factors and myeloperoxidase, as well as elevated serum DNA content in Cd-stimulated Nile tilapia suggested that a considerable number of neutrophils were recruited to the liver. Furtherly, in vitro experiments demonstrated that Cd induced the formation of NETs, and the possible mechanism was related to the generation of reactive oxygen species and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase, along with the P38 and extracellular regulated protein kinase (ERK) signaling pathways. We concluded that ferroptosis and NETs are the critical mechanisms contributing to Cd-induced liver injury in Nile tilapia. These findings will contribute to Cd toxicological studies in aquatic animals.

Ferroptosis and cuproptosis: Metal-dependent cell death pathways activated in response to classical chemotherapy - Significance for cancer treatment?

Apoptosis has traditionally been regarded as the desired cell death pathway activated by chemotherapeutic drugs due to its controlled and non-inflammatory nature. However, recent discoveries of alternative cell death pathways have paved the way for immune-stimulatory treatment approaches in cancer. Ferroptosis (dependent on iron) and cuproptosis (dependent on copper) hold promise for selective cancer cell targeting and overcoming drug resistance. Copper ionophores and iron-bearing nano-drugs show potential for clinical therapy as single agents and as adjuvant treatments. Here we review up-to-date evidence for the involvement of metal ion-dependent cell death pathways in the cytotoxicity of classical chemotherapeutic agents (alkylating agents, topoisomerase inhibitors, antimetabolites, and mitotic spindle inhibitors) and their combinations with cuproptosis and ferroptosis inducers, indicating the prospects, advantages, and obstacles of their use.

Reflections on the complex mechanisms of endometriosis from the perspective of ferroptosis

Ferroptosis is a novel type of iron-dependent programmed cell death characterised by intracellular iron overload, increased lipid peroxidation and abnormal accumulation of reactive oxygen species.It has been implicated in the progression of several diseases including cancer, ischaemia-reperfusion injury, neurodegenerative diseases and liver disease. The etiology of endometriosis (EMS) is still unclear and is associated with multiple factors, often accompanied by various forms of cell death and a complex microenvironment. In recent decades, the role of non-traditional forms of cell death, represented by ferroptosis, in endometriosis has come to the attention of researchers. This article reviews the transitional role of iron homeostasis in the development of ferroptosis, the characteristics and regulatory mechanisms of ferroptosis, and focuses on summarising the links between iron death and various pathogenic mechanisms of EMS, including oxidative stress, dysregulation of lipid metabolism, inflammation, autophagy and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. The possible applications of ferroptosis in the treatment of EMS, future research directions and current issues are discussed with the aim of providing new ideas for further understanding of EMS.

Clobetasol propionate, a Nrf-2 inhibitor, sensitizes human lung cancer cells to radiation-induced killing via mitochondrial ROS-dependent ferroptosis

Combining radiotherapy with Nrf-2 inhibitor holds promise as a potential therapeutic strategy for radioresistant lung cancer. Here, the radiosensitizing efficacy of a synthetic glucocorticoid clobetasol propionate (CP) in A549 human lung cancer cells was evaluated. CP exhibited potent radiosensitization in lung cancer cells via inhibition of Nrf-2 pathway, leading to elevation of oxidative stress. Transcriptomic studies revealed significant modulation of pathways related to ferroptosis, fatty acid and glutathione metabolism. Consistent with these findings, CP treatment followed by radiation exposure showed characteristic features of ferroptosis in terms of mitochondrial swelling, rupture and loss of cristae. Ferroptosis is a form of regulated cell death triggered by iron-dependent ROS accumulation and lipid peroxidation. In combination with radiation, CP showed enhanced iron release, mitochondrial ROS, and lipid peroxidation, indicating ferroptosis induction. Further, iron chelation, inhibition of lipid peroxidation or scavenging mitochondrial ROS prevented CP-mediated radiosensitization. Nrf-2 negatively regulates ferroptosis through upregulation of antioxidant defense and iron homeostasis. Interestingly, Nrf-2 overexpressing A549 cells were refractory to CP-mediated ferroptosis induction and radiosensitization. Thus, this study identified anti-psoriatic drug clobetasol propionate can be repurposed as a promising radiosensitizer for Keap-1 mutant lung cancers.

PPAR-α inhibits DHEA-induced ferroptosis in granulosa cells through upregulation of FADS2

BACKGROUND

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a prevalent endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age, is characterized by disturbances in hormone levels and ovarian dysfunction. Ferroptosis, a unique form of regulated cell death characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation. Emerging evidence indicates that ferroptosis may have a significant role in the pathogenesis of PCOS, highlighting the importance of studying this mechanism to better understand the disorder and potentially develop novel therapeutic interventions.

METHODS

To create an in vivo PCOS model, mice were injected with dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and the success of the model was confirmed through further assessments. Ferroptosis levels were evaluated through detecting ferroptosis-related indicators. Ferroptosis-related genes were found through bioinformatic analysis and identified by experiments. An in vitro PCOS model was also established using DHEA treated KGN cells. The molecular binding relationship was confirmed using a chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay.

RESULTS

In PCOS model, various ferroptosis-related indicators such as MDA, Fe2+, and lipid ROS showed an increase, while GSH, GPX4, and TFR1 exhibited a decrease. These findings indicate an elevated level of ferroptosis in the PCOS model. The ferroptosis-related gene FADS2 was identified and validated. FADS2 and PPAR-α were shown to be highly expressed in ovarian tissue and primary granulosa cells (GCs) of PCOS mice. Furthermore, the overexpression of both FADS2 and PPAR-α in KGN cells effectively suppressed the DHEA-induced increase in ferroptosis-related indicators (MDA, Fe2+, and lipid ROS) and the decrease in GSH, GPX4, and TFR1 levels. The ferroptosis agonist erastin reversed the suppressive effect, suggesting the involvement of ferroptosis in this process. Additionally, the FADS2 inhibitor SC26196 was found to inhibit the effect of PPAR-α on ferroptosis. Moreover, the binding of PPAR-α to the FADS2 promoter region was predicted and confirmed. This indicates the regulatory relationship between PPAR-α and FADS2 in the context of ferroptosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study indicates that PPAR-α may have an inhibitory effect on DHEA-induced ferroptosis in GCs by enhancing the expression of FADS2. This discovery provides valuable insights into the pathophysiology and potential therapeutic targets for PCOS.

Qixian granule inhibits ferroptosis in vascular endothelial cells by modulating TRPML1 in the lysosome to prevent postmenopausal atherosclerosis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

QiXian Granule (QXG) is an integrated traditional Chinese medicine formula used to treat postmenopausal atherosclerotic (AS) cardiovascular diseases. The previous studies have found that QXG inhibited isoproterenol (ISO)-induced myocardial remodeling. And its active ingredient, Icraiin, can inhibit ferroptosis by promoting oxidized low-density lipoprotein (xo-LDL)-induced vascular endothelial cell injury and autophagy in atherosclerotic mice. Another active ingredient, Salvianolic Acid B, can suppress ferroptosis and apoptosis during myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury by reducing ubiquitin-proteasome degradation of Glutathione Peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and down-regulating the reactive oxygen species (ROS)- c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK)/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The objective of this research was to assess the possible impact of QXG on atherosclerosis in postmenopausal individuals and investigate its underlying mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Female ApoE-/- mice underwent ovariectomy and were subjected to a high-fat diet (HFD) to establish a postmenopausal atherosclerosis model. The therapeutic effects of QXG were observed in vivo and in vitro through intraperitoneal injection of erastin, G-protein Coupled Estrogen Receptor (GPER) inhibitor (G15), and silent Mucolipin Transient Receptor Potential Channel 1 (TRPML1) adenovirus injection via tail vein. UPLC-MS and molecular docking techniques identified and evaluated major QXG components, contributing to the investigation of QXG's anti-postmenopausal atherosclerotic effects.

RESULTS

QXG increased serum Estradiol levels, decreased follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, which indicated QXG had estrogen-like effects in Ovx/ApoE-/- mice. Furthermore, QXG demonstrated the potential to impede the progression of AS in Ovx/ApoE-/- mice, as evidenced by reductions in serum triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. Additionally, QXG inhibited ferroptosis in Ovx/ApoE-/- mice. Notably, UPLC-MS analysis identified a total of 106 active components in QXG. The results of molecular docking analysis demonstrated that Epmedin B, Astragaloside II, and Orientin exhibit strong binding affinity towards TRPML1. QXG alleviates the progression of atherosclerosis by activating TRPML1 through the GPER pathway or directly activating TRPML1, thereby inhibiting GPX4 and ferritin heavy chain (FTH1)-mediated iron pendant disease. In vitro, QXG-treated serum suppressed proliferation, migration, and ox-LDL-induced MMP and ROS elevation in HAECs.

CONCLUSION

QXG inhibited GPX4 and FTH1-mediated ferroptosis in vascular endothelial cells through up-regulating GPER/TRPML1 signaling, providing a potential therapeutic option for postmenopausal females seeking a safe and effective medication to prevent atherosclerosis. The study highlights QXG's estrogenic properties and its promising role in combating postmenopausal atherosclerosis.

Total synthesis of 1,4a-di-epi-ent-pancratistatin, exemplifying a stereodivergent approach to pancratistatin isomers

The total synthesis of 1,4a-di-epi-ent-pancratistatin, a novel stereoisomer of the anti-tumor Amaryllidaceae alkaloid pancratistatin, was achieved in 14 steps starting from D-mannitol. The construction of the pancratistatin skeleton involved conjugate addition of organocuprate to a nitrosoolefin, which was generated in situ from inosose oxime. This was followed by stereoselective reduction of the oxime to an amine and site-selective formylation. Biological evaluations revealed that the newly synthesized compounds exhibit cytotoxicity toward cancer cells and significant ferroptosis inhibitory activity. These compounds constitute a promising small-molecule library for the development of potent bioactive agents.

Nuclear export of PML promotes p53-mediated apoptosis and ferroptosis

Promyelocytic leukemia protein (PML), a tumor suppressor protein, plays a key role in cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, senescence and cellular metabolism. Here, we report that PML promotes apoptosis and ferroptosis. Our data showed that PML over-expression inhibited cell proliferation and migration. PML over-expression increased apoptotic cells, nuclear condensation and the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, accompanied by regulation of Bcl-2 family proteins and reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, suggesting that PML enhanced apoptosis. Meanwhile, PML over-expression not only increased lipid ROS accumulation and Malondialdehyde (MDA) content but also downregulated solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11) and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) expression, indicating that PML enhanced ferroptosis. Additionally, knockdown of p53 attenuated the effect of PML on SLC7A11 and GPX4, and inhibited the increase of lipid ROS and ROS by PML over-expression. Moreover, translocation of PML from nucleus to cytoplasm not only promoted apoptosis and ferroptosis, but also inhibited cell proliferation. Taken together, PML promotes apoptosis and ferroptosis, in which the mediation of p53 and the nuclear export of PML play important roles.

BACH1 inhibits senescence, obesity, and short lifespan by ferroptotic FGF21 secretion

Ferroptosis is a type of regulated cell death characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation. A model cell system is constructed to induce ferroptosis by re-expressing the transcription factor BACH1, a potent ferroptosis inducer, in immortalized mouse embryonic fibroblasts (iMEFs). The transfer of the culture supernatant from ferroptotic iMEFs activates the proliferation of hepatoma cells and other fibroblasts and suppresses cellular senescence-like features. The BACH1-dependent secretion of the longevity factor FGF21 is increased in ferroptotic iMEFs. The anti-senescent effects of the culture supernatant from these iMEFs are abrogated by Fgf21 knockout. BACH1 activates the transcription of Fgf21 by promoting ferroptotic stress and increases FGF21 protein expression by suppressing its autophagic degradation through transcriptional Sqstm1 and Lamp2 repression. The BACH1-induced ferroptotic FGF21 secretion suppresses obesity in high-fat diet-fed mice and the short lifespan of progeria mice. The inhibition of these aging-related phenotypes can be physiologically significant regarding ferroptosis.

Manganese-induced Photothermal-Ferroptosis for synergistic tumor therapy

Ferroptosis-related tumor therapy based on nanomedicines has recently gained significant attention. However, the therapeutic performance is still hindered by the tumor's physical barriers such as the fibrotic tumor matrix and elevated interstitial fluid pressure, as well as chemical barriers like glutathione (GSH) overabundance. These physicochemical barriers impede the bioavailability of nanomedicines and compromise the therapeutic efficacy of lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS). Thus, this study pioneers a manganese-mediated overcoming of physicochemical barriers in the tumor microenvironment using organosilica-based nanomedicine (MMONs), which bolsters the synergy of photothermal-ferroptosis treatment. The MMONs display commendable proficiency in overcoming tumor physical barriers, due to their MnO2-mediated shape-morphing and softness-transformation ability, which facilitates augmented cellular internalization, enhanced tumor accumulation, and superior drug penetration. Also, the MMONs possess excellent capability in chemical barrier overcoming, including MnO2-mediated dual GSH clearance and enhanced ROS generation, which facilitates ferroptosis and heat shock protein inhibition. Notably, the resulting integration of physical and chemical barrier overcoming leads to amplified photothermal-ferroptosis synergistic tumor therapy both in vitro and in vivo. Accordingly, the comparative proteomic analysis has identified promoted ferroptosis with a transient inhibitory response observed in the mitochondria. This research aims to improve treatment strategies to better fight the complex defenses of tumors.

Small Molecule MIF Modulation Enhances Ferroptosis by Impairing DNA Repair Mechanisms

Ferroptosis is a form of regulated cell death that can be modulated by small molecules and has the potential for the development of therapeutics for oncology. Although excessive lipid peroxidation is the defining hallmark of ferroptosis, DNA damage may also play a significant role. In this study, a potential mechanistic role for MIF in homologous recombination (HR) DNA repair is identified. The inhibition or genetic depletion of MIF or other HR proteins, such as breast cancer type 1 susceptibility protein (BRCA1), is demonstrated to significantly enhance the sensitivity of cells to ferroptosis. The interference with HR results in the translocation of the tumor suppressor protein p53 to the mitochondria, which in turn stimulates the production of reactive oxygen species. Taken together, the findings demonstrate that MIF-directed small molecules enhance ferroptosis via a putative MIF-BRCA1-RAD51 axis in HR, which causes resistance to ferroptosis. This suggests a potential novel druggable route to enhance ferroptosis by targeted anticancer therapeutics in the future.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection induces a novel type of cell death: Ferroptosis

Ferroptosis is a lipid peroxidation-driven and iron-dependent form of programmed cell death, which is involved in a variety of physical processes and multiple diseases. Numerous reports have demonstrated that ferroptosis is closely related to the pathophysiological processes of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) infection and is characterized by the accumulation of excess lipid peroxides on the cell membrane. In this study, the various functions of ferroptosis, and the therapeutic strategies and diagnostic biomarkers of tuberculosis, were summarized. Notably, this review provides insights into the molecular mechanisms and functions of M. tuberculosis-induced ferroptosis, suggesting potential future therapeutic and diagnostic markers for tuberculosis.

Ferroptosis inhibitor improves outcome after early and delayed treatment in mild spinal cord injury

We show that redox active iron can induce a regulated form of non-apoptotic cell death and tissue damage called ferroptosis that can contribute to secondary damage and functional loss in the acute and chronic periods after spinal cord injury (SCI) in young, adult, female mice. Phagocytosis of red blood cells at sites of hemorrhage is the main source of iron derived from hemoglobin after SCI. Expression of hemeoxygenase-1 that induces release of iron from heme, is increased in spinal cord macrophages 7 days after injury. While iron is stored safely in ferritin in the injured spinal cord, it can, however, be released by NCOA4-mediated shuttling of ferritin to autophagosomes for degradation (ferritinophagy). This leads to the release of redox active iron that can cause free radical damage. Expression of NCOA4 is increased after SCI, mainly in macrophages. Increase in the ratio of redox active ferrous (Fe2+) to ferric iron (Fe3+) is also detected after SCI by capillary electrophoresis inductively coupled mass spectrometry. These changes are accompanied by other hallmarks of ferroptosis, i.e., deficiency in various elements of the antioxidant glutathione (GSH) pathway. We also detect increases in enzymes that repair membrane lipids (ACSL4 and LPCAT3) and thus promote on-going ferroptosis. These changes are associated with increased levels of 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), a toxic lipid peroxidation product. Mice with mild SCI (30 kdyne force) treated with the ferroptosis inhibitor (UAMC-3203-HCL) either early or delayed times after injury showed improvement in locomotor recovery and secondary damage. Cerebrospinal fluid and serum samples from human SCI cases show evidence of increased iron storage (ferritin), and other iron related molecules, and reduction in GSH. Collectively, these data suggest that ferroptosis contributes to secondary damage after SCI and highlights the possible use of ferroptosis inhibitors to treat SCI.

Cardiovascular disease: Mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy crosstalk mechanisms with novel programmed cell death and macrophage polarisation

Several cardiovascular illnesses are associated with aberrant activation of cellular pyroptosis, ferroptosis, necroptosis, cuproptosis, disulfidptosis, and macrophage polarisation as hallmarks contributing to vascular damage and abnormal cardiac function. Meanwhile, these three novel forms of cellular dysfunction are closely related to mitochondrial homeostasis. Mitochondria are the main organelles that supply energy and maintain cellular homeostasis. Mitochondrial stability is maintained through a series of regulatory pathways, such as mitochondrial fission, mitochondrial fusion and mitophagy. Studies have shown that mitochondrial dysfunction (e.g., impaired mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy) promotes ROS production, leading to oxidative stress, which induces cellular pyroptosis, ferroptosis, necroptosis, cuproptosis, disulfidptosis and macrophage M1 phenotypic polarisation. Therefore, an in-depth knowledge of the dynamic regulation of mitochondria during cellular pyroptosis, ferroptosis, necroptosis, cuproptosis, disulfidptosis and macrophage polarisation is necessary to understand cardiovascular disease development. This paper systematically summarises the impact of changes in mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy on regulating novel cellular dysfunctions and macrophage polarisation to promote an in-depth understanding of the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases and provide corresponding theoretical references for treating cardiovascular diseases.

Retinoic acid receptor alpha inhibits ferroptosis by promoting thioredoxin and protein phosphatase 1F in lung adenocarcinoma

Ferroptosis is a recently discovered form of cell death that plays an important role in tumor growth and holds promise as a target for antitumor therapy. However, evidence in the regulation of ferroptosis in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remains elusive. Here, we show that retinoic acid receptor alpha (RARA) is upregulated with the treatment of ferroptosis inducers (FINs). Pharmacological activation of RARA increases the resistance of LUAD to ferroptosis according to cell viability and lipid peroxidation assays, while RARA inhibitor or knockdown (KD) does the opposite. Through transcriptome sequencing in RARA-KD cells and chromatin immunoprecipitation (CHIP)-Seq data, we identify thioredoxin (TXN) and protein phosphatase 1 F (PPM1F) as downstream targets of RARA, both of which inhibit ferroptosis. We confirm that RARA binds to the promotor region of TXN and PPM1F and promotes their transcription by CHIP-qPCR and dual-luciferase assays. Overexpression of TXN and PPM1F reverses the effects of RARA knockdown on ferroptosis in vitro and vivo. Clinically, RARA knockdown or inhibitor increases cells' sensitivity to pemetrexed and cisplatin (CDDP). Immunohistochemistry (IHC) of LUAD from our cohort shows the same expression tendency of RARA and the downstream targets. Our study uncovers that RARA inhibits ferroptosis in LUAD by promoting TXN and PPM1F, and inhibiting RARA-TXN/PPM1F axis represents a promising strategy for improving the efficacy of FINs or chemotherapy in the treatment of LUAD patients.

Intravenous calcitriol administration improves the liver redox status and attenuates ferroptosis in mice with high-fat diet-induced obesity complicated with sepsis

Obesity aggravates ferroptosis, and vitamin D (VD) may inhibit ferroptosis. We hypothesized that weight reduction and/or calcitriol administration have benefits against the sepsis-induced liver redox imbalance and ferroptosis in obese mice. Mice were fed a high-fat diet for 11 weeks, then half of the mice continued to consume the diet, while the other half were transferred to a low-energy diet for 5 weeks. After feeding the respective diets for 16 weeks, sepsis was induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Septic mice were divided into four experimental groups: OS group, obese mice injected with saline; OD group, obese mice with calcitriol; WS group, weight-reduction mice with saline; and WD group, weight-reduction mice with calcitriol. Mice in the respective groups were euthanized at 12 or 24 h after CLP. Results showed that the OS group had the highest inflammatory mediators and lipid peroxide levels in the liver. Calcitriol treatment reduced iron content, enhanced the reduced glutathione/oxidized glutathione ratio, upregulated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, ferroptosis-suppressing protein 1, and solute carrier family 7 member 11 expression levels. Also, mitochondrion-associated nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase 1, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator 1, hypoxia-inducible factor-1α, and heme oxidase-1 expression levels increased in the late phase of sepsis. These results were not noted in the WS group. These findings suggest that calcitriol treatment elicits a more-balanced glutathione redox status, alleviates liver ferroptosis, and enhances mitochondrial biogenesis-associated gene expressions. Weight reduction alone had minimal influences on liver ferroptosis and mitochondrial biogenesis in obese mice with sepsis.

Programmed cell death: NINJ1 and mechanisms of plasma membrane rupture

Lytic cell death culminates in cell swelling and plasma membrane rupture (PMR). The cellular contents released, including proteins, metabolites, and nucleic acids, can act as danger signals and induce inflammation. During regulated cell death (RCD), lysis is actively initiated and can be preceded by an initial loss of membrane integrity caused by pore-forming proteins, allowing small molecules and cytokines to exit the cell. A recent seminal discovery showed that ninjurin1 (NINJ1) is the common executioner of PMR downstream of RCD, resulting in the release of large proinflammatory molecules and representing a novel target of cell death-associated lysis. We summarize recent developments in understanding membrane integrity and rupture of the plasma membrane with a focus on NINJ1.

Emerging insights into Lipocalin-2: Unraveling its role in Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) ranks as the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder globally, marked by a complex pathogenesis. Lipocalin-2 (LCN2) emerges as a crucial factor during the progression of PD. Belonging to the lipocalin family, LCN2 is integral to several biological functions, including glial cell activation, iron homeostasis regulation, immune response, inflammatory reactions, and oxidative stress mitigation. Substantial research has highlighted marked increases in LCN2 expression within the substantia nigra (SN), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and blood of individuals with PD. This review focuses on the pathological roles of LCN2 in neuroinflammation, aging, neuronal damage, and iron dysregulation in PD. It aims to explore the underlying mechanisms of LCN2 in the disease and potential therapeutic targets that could inform future treatment strategies.

Mifepristone protects acetaminophen induced liver injury through NRF2/GSH/GST mediated ferroptosis suppression

Ferroptosis is a form of iron-dependent cell death that has attracted significant attention for its potential role in numerous diseases. Targeted inhibition of ferroptosis could be of potential use in treating diseases: such as drug induced liver injury (DILI). Ferroptosis can be antagonized by the xCT/GSH/GPX4, FSP1/CoQ10, DHODH/CoQ10, GCH1/BH4, and NRF2 pathways. Identifying novel anti-ferroptosis pathways will further promote our understanding of the biological nature of ferroptosis and help discover new drugs targeting ferroptosis related human diseases. In this study, we identified the clinically used drug mifepristone (RU486) as a novel ferroptosis inhibitor. Mechanistically, RU486 inhibits ferroptosis by inducing GSH synthesis pathway, which supplies GSH for glutathione-S-transferase (GST) mediated 4-HNE detoxification. Furthermore, RU486 induced RLIP76 and MRP1 export 4-HNE conjugate contributes to its anti-ferroptosis activity. Interestingly, RU486 induced GSH/GSTs/RLIP76&MRP1 anti-ferroptosis pathway acts independent of classic anti-ferroptosis systems: including xCT/GSH/GPX4, FSP1, DHODH, GCH1, SCD1 and FTH1. Moreover, NRF2 was identified to be important for RU486's anti-ferroptosis activity by inducing downstream gene expression. Importantly, in mouse model, RU486 showed strong protection effect on acetaminophen (APAP)-induced acute liver injury, evidenced by decreased ALT, AST level and histological recovery after APAP treatment. Interestingly, RU486 also decreased oxidative markers, including 4-HNE and MDA, and induced NRF2 activation as well as GSTs, MRP1 expression. Together, these data suggest NRF2/GSH/GST/RLIP76&MRP1 mediated detoxification pathway as an important independent anti-ferroptosis pathway act both in vitro and in vivo.

Visualization of Acrolein Upregulation during Ferroptosis by a Ratiometric Fluorescent Probe

Ferroptosis is a pattern of cell death caused by iron-dependent accumulation of lipid peroxides and is closely associated with the occurrence and development of multiple diseases. Acrolein (ACR), one of the final metabolites of lipid peroxidation, is a reactive carbonyl species with strong biotoxicity. Effective detection of ACR is important for understanding its role in the progression of ferroptosis and studying the specific mechanisms of ferroptosis-mediated diseases. However, visualization detection of ACR during ferroptosis has not yet been reported. In this work, the first ratiometric fluorescent probe (HBT-SH) based on 2-(2'-hydroxyphenyl) benzothiazole (HBT) was designed for tracing endogenous ACR with an unprecedented regiospecific ACR-induced intramolecular cyclization strategy, which employs 2-aminoethanethiol as an ACR-selective recognition receptor. The experimental results showed that HBT-SH has excellent selectivity, high sensitivity (LOD = 0.26 μM) and good biocompatibility. More importantly, the upregulation of ACR levels was observed during ferroptosis in HeLa cells and zebrafish, indicating that ACR may be a specific active molecule that plays an essential biological role during ferroptosis or may serve as a potential marker of ferroptosis, which has great significance for studying the pathological process and treatment options of ferroptosis-related diseases.

Tumor suppressor Par-4 activates autophagy-dependent ferroptosis

Ferroptosis is a unique iron-dependent form of non-apoptotic cell death characterized by devastating lipid peroxidation. Whilst growing evidence suggests that ferroptosis is a type of autophagy-dependent cell death, the underlying molecular mechanisms regulating ferroptosis are largely unknown. In this study, through an unbiased RNA-sequencing screening, we demonstrate the activation of a multi-faceted tumor-suppressor protein Par-4/PAWR during ferroptosis. Functional studies reveal that genetic depletion of Par-4 effectively blocks ferroptosis, whereas Par-4 overexpression sensitizes cells to undergo ferroptosis. More importantly, we have determined that Par-4-triggered ferroptosis is mechanistically driven by the autophagic machinery. Upregulation of Par-4 promotes activation of ferritinophagy (autophagic degradation of ferritin) via the nuclear receptor co-activator 4 (NCOA4), resulting in excessive release of free labile iron and, hence, enhanced lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis. Inhibition of Par-4 dramatically suppresses the NCOA4-mediated ferritinophagy signaling axis. Our results also establish that Par-4 activation positively correlates with reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, which is critical for ferritinophagy-mediated ferroptosis. Furthermore, Par-4 knockdown effectively blocked ferroptosis-mediated tumor suppression in the mouse xenograft models. Collectively, these findings reveal that Par-4 has a crucial role in ferroptosis, which could be further exploited for cancer therapy.

Disulfidptosis: A new type of cell death

Disulfidptosis is a novel form of cell death that is distinguishable from established programmed cell death pathways such as apoptosis, pyroptosis, autophagy, ferroptosis, and oxeiptosis. This process is characterized by the rapid depletion of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) in cells and high expression of solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11) during glucose starvation, resulting in abnormal cystine accumulation, which subsequently induces andabnormal disulfide bond formation in actin cytoskeleton proteins, culminating in actin network collapse and disulfidptosis. This review aimed to summarize the underlying mechanisms, influencing factors, comparisons with traditional cell death pathways, associations with related diseases, application prospects, and future research directions related to disulfidptosis.

Chlorobenzoquinones Aggravate RSL3-Induced Ferroptosis in ROS-Dependent Manner

Chlorobenzoquinones (CBQs) are a class of emerging water disinfection byproducts that pose significant risks to public health. In this study, we found that three CBQs (tetrachloro-1,4-benzoquinone, 2,5-dichloro-1,4-benzoquinone, and 2-chloro-1,4-benzoquinone) can significantly aggravate cell death caused by Ras-selective lethal small molecule 3 (RSL3). Further study showed that the cell death caused by CBQs, either alone or in combination with RSL3, was related to iron accumulation and GPX4 inactivation, suggesting the occurrence of ferroptosis. Furthermore, reactive oxygen species are found to play a potential key role in mediating the toxicity of CBQs in CBQs and RSL3-induced ferroptosis. These findings will be helpful in understanding the toxic mechanism of CBQs to mammalian cells.

Exosomes From Muscle-Derived Stem Cells Repair Peripheral Nerve Injury by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via the Keap1-Nrf2-Ho-1 Axis

Currently, the clinical outcomes of peripheral nerve injuries are suboptimal, highlighting the urgent need to understand the mechanisms of nerve injury to enhance treatment strategies. Muscle-derived stem cells (MDSCs) are a diverse group of multipotent cells that hold promise for peripheral nerve regeneration due to their strong antioxidant and regenerative properties. Our research has revealed that severe ferroptosis occurs in the sciatic nerve and ipsilateral dorsal root ganglion following sciatic nerve injury. Interestingly, we have observed that MDSC-derived exosomes effectively suppress cell ferroptosis and enhance cell viability in Schwann cells and dorsal root ganglion cells. Treatment with exosomes led to increased expression of BDNF and P62 in Schwann cells, decreased expression of Keap1, Nrf2, and HO-1 in Schwann cells, and upregulated dorsal root ganglion cells. Rats treated with exosomes exhibited improvements in sciatic nerve function, sensitivity to stimuli, and reduced muscle atrophy, indicating a positive impact on post-injury recovery. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate the occurrence of ferroptosis in the sciatic nerve and dorsal root ganglion post-injury, with MDSC exosomes offering a potential therapeutic strategy by inhibiting ferroptosis, activating the Keap1-Nrf2-HO-1 pathway, and optimizing the post-injury repair environment.

Ferroptosis-related gene MAPK3 is associated with the neurological outcome after cardiac arrest

BACKGROUND

Neuronal ferroptosis is closely related to the disease of the nervous system, and the objective of the present study was to recognize and verify the potential ferroptosis-related genes to forecast the neurological outcome after cardiac arrest.

METHODS

Cardiac Arrest-related microarray datasets GSE29540 and GSE92696 were downloaded from GEO and batch normalization of the expression data was performed using "sva" of the R package. GSE29540 was analyzed to identify DEGs. Venn diagram was applied to recognize ferroptosis-related DEGs from the DEGs. Subsequently, The Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis were performed, and PPI network was applied to screen hub genes. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were adopted to determine the predictive value of the biomarkers, and the GSE92696 dataset was applied to further evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of the biomarkers. We explore transcription factors and miRNAs associated with hub genes. The "CIBERSORT" package of R was utilized to analyse the proportion infiltrating immune cells. Finally, validated by a series of experiments at the cellular level.

RESULTS

112 overlapping ferroptosis-related DEGs were further obtained via intersecting these DEGs and ferroptosis-related genes. The GO and KEGG analysis demonstrate that ferroptosis-related DEGs are mainly involved in response to oxidative stress, ferroptosis, apoptosis, IL-17 signalling pathway, autophagy, toll-like receptor signalling pathway. The top 10 hub genes were selected, including HIF1A, MAPK3, PPARA, IL1B, PTGS2, RELA, TLR4, KEAP1, SREBF1, SIRT6. Only MAPK3 was upregulated in both GSE29540 and GAE92696. The AUC values of the MAPK3 are 0.654 and 0.850 in GSE29540 and GSE92696 respectively. The result of miRNAs associated with hub genes indicates that hsa-miR-214-3p and hsa-miR-483-5p can regulate the expression of MAPK3. MAPK3 was positively correlated with naive B cells, macrophages M0, activated dendritic cells and negatively correlated with activated CD4 memory T cells, CD8 T cells, and memory B cells. Compared to the OGD4/R24 group, the OGD4/R12 group had higher MAPK3 expression at both mRNA and protein levels and more severe ferroptosis.

CONCLUSION

In summary, the MAPK3 ferroptosis-related gene could be used as a biomarker to predict the neurological outcome after cardiac arrest. Potential biological pathways provide novel insights into the pathogenesis of cardiac arrest.

FTO alleviated ferroptosis in septic cardiomyopathy via mediating the m6A modification of BACH1

Sepsis is a global health challenge that results in systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and multi-organ dysfunction, with the heart being particularly susceptible. This study aimed to elucidate the effect of FTO, a key regulator in m6A methylation in septic cardiomyopathy, and its potential therapeutic implications. Cellular and animal models of septic myocardial injury were established. Moreover, it was revealed that ferroptosis, which is a form of programmed necrosis occurring with iron dependence, was activated within cardiomyocytes during septic conditions. The overexpression of FTO-suppressed ferroptosis alleviated heart inflammation and dysfunction and improved survival rates in vivo. However, the protective effects of FTO were attenuated by the overexpression of BACH1, which is a molecule negatively correlated with FTO. Mechanistically, FTO modulated the m6A modification of BACH1, suggesting a complex interplay in the regulation of cardiomyocyte damage and sepsis. Our findings reveal the potential of targeting the FTO/BACH1 axis and ferroptosis inhibitors as therapeutic strategies for sepsis-induced cardiac injuries.

Cancer stem cell mimicry for immune evasion and therapeutic resistance

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are heterogeneous, possess self-renewal attributes, and orchestrate important crosstalk in tumors. We propose that the CSC state represents "mimicry" by cancer cells that leads to phenotypic plasticity. CSC mimicry is suggested as CSCs can impersonate immune cells, vasculo-endothelia, or lymphangiogenic cells to support cancer growth. CSCs facilitate both paracrine and juxtracrine signaling to prime tumor-associated immune and stromal cells to adopt pro-tumoral phenotypes, driving therapeutic resistance. Here, we outline the ingenuity of CSCs' mimicry in their quest to evade immune detection, which leads to immunotherapeutic resistance, and highlight CSC-mimicry-targeted therapeutic strategies for robust immunotherapy.

miR-30a-5p mediates ferroptosis of hippocampal neurons in chronic cerebral hypoperfusion-induced cognitive dysfunction by modulating the SIRT1/NRF2 pathway

OBJECTIVE

Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH) is a common cause of brain dysfunction. As a microRNA (also known as miRNAs or miRs), miR-30a-5p participates in neuronal damage and relates to ferroptosis. We explored the in vivo and in vitro effects and functional mechanism of miR-30a-5p in CCH-triggered cognitive impairment through the silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1)/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) pathway.

METHODS

After 1 month of CCH modeling through bilateral common carotid artery stenosis, mice were injected with 2 μL antagomir (also known as anti-miRNAs) miR-30a-5p, with cognitive function evaluated by Morris water maze and novel object recognition tests. In vitro HT-22 cell oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD) model was established, followed by miR-30a-5p inhibitor and/or si-SIRT1 transfections, with Fe2+ concentration, malonaldehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) contents, reactive oxygen species (ROS), miR-30a-5p and SIRT1 and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) protein levels, NRF2 nuclear translocation, and miR-30a-5p-SIRT1 targeting relationship assessed.

RESULTS

CCH-induced mice showed obvious cognitive impairment, up-regulated miR-30a-5p, and down-regulated SIRT1. Ferroptosis occurred in hippocampal neurons, manifested by elevated Fe2+ concentration and ROS and MDA levels, mitochondrial atrophy, and diminished GSH content. Antagomir miR-30a-5p or miR-30a-5p inhibitor promoted SIRT1 expression and NRF2 nuclear translocation, increased GPX4, cell viability and GSH content, and reduced Fe2+ concentration and ROS and MDA levels. miR-30a-5p negatively regulated SIRT1. In vitro, miR-30a-5p knockout increased NRF2 nuclear translocation by up-regulating SIRT1, inhibiting OGD-induced ferroptosis in HT-22 cells.

CONCLUSION

miR-30a-5p induces hippocampal neuronal ferroptosis and exacerbates post-CCH cognitive dysfunction by targeting SIRT1 and reducing NRF2 nuclear translocation.

Metabolomics reveals that ferroptosis participates in bisphenol A-induced testicular injury

Objective

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a common environmental endocrine disruptor that negatively impairs male reproductive ability. This study aimed to explore the alterations in serum metabolomics that occur following BPA exposure and the mechanism via which BPA induces the death of testicular cells in a male mouse model.

Methods

The mice were classified into two groups: BPA-exposed and control groups, and samples were collected for metabolomic determination, semen quality analysis, electron microscopy, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, quantitative real-time PCR, pathological staining, and Western blot analysis.

Results

BPA exposure caused testicular damage and significantly decreased sperm quality in mice. Combined with non-target metabolomic analysis, this was closely related to ferroptosis induced by abnormal metabolites of arachidonic acid and phosphatidylcholine, and the expression of its related genes, acyl CoA synthetase 4, glutathione peroxidase 4, lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase 3, and phosphatidylethanolamine-binding protein 1 were altered.

Conclusion

BPA induced ferroptosis, caused testicular damage, and reduced fertility by affecting lipid metabolism in male mice. Inhibiting ferroptosis may potentially function as a therapeutic strategy to mitigate the male reproductive toxicity induced by BPA.