Arsenic induces pancreatic dysfunction and ferroptosis via mitochondrial ROS-autophagy-lysosomal pathway

Perfluorooctane sulfonate induces ferroptosis-dependent non-alcoholic steatohepatitis via autophagy-MCU-caused mitochondrial calcium overload and MCU-ACSL4 interaction

The incidence of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is related with perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), yet the mechanism remains ill-defined. Mounting evidence suggests that ferroptosis plays a crucial role in the initiation of NASH. In this study, we used mice and human hepatocytes L-02 to investigate the role of ferroptosis in PFOS-induced NASH and the effect and molecular mechanism of PFOS on liver ferroptosis. We found here that PFOS caused NASH in mice, and lipid accumulation and inflammatory response in the L-02 cells. PFOS induced hepatic ferroptosis in vivo and in vitro, as evidenced by the decrease in glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), and the increases in cytosolic iron, acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 4 (ACSL4) and lipid peroxidation. In the PFOS-treated cells, the increases in the inflammatory factors and lipid contents were reversed by ferroptosis inhibitor. PFOS-induced ferroptosis was relieved by autophagy inhibitor. The expression of mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU) was accelerated by PFOS, leading to subsequent mitochondrial calcium accumulation, and inhibiting autophagy reversed the increase in MCU. Inhibiting mitochondrial calcium reversed the variations in GPX4 and cytosolic iron, without influencing the change in ACSL4, induced by PFOS. MCU interacted with ACSL4 and the siRNA against MCU reversed the changes in ACSL4，GPX4 and cytosolic iron systemically. This study put forward the involvement of hepatic ferroptosis in PFOS-induced NASH and identified MCU as the mediator of the autophagy-dependent ferroptosis.

Realistic Nanoplastics Induced Pulmonary Damage via the Crosstalk of Ferritinophagy and Mitochondrial Dysfunction

The smaller size fraction of plastics may be more substantially existing and detrimental than larger-sized particles. However, reports on nanoplastics (NPs), especially their airborne occurrences and potential health hazards to the respiratory system, are scarce. Previous studies limit the understanding of their real respiratory effects, since sphere-type polystyrene (PS) nanoparticles differ from NPs occurring in nature with respect to their physicochemical properties. Here, we employ a mechanical breakdown method, producing NPs directly from bulk plastic, preserving NP properties in nature. We report that among four relatively high abundance NP materials PS, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyethylene (PE) with a size of 100 nm, PVC induced slightly more severe lung toxicity profiles compared to the other plastics. The lung cytotoxicity of NPs is higher than that of commercial PS NPs and comparable to natural particles silicon dioxide (SiO2) and anatase titanium dioxide (TiO2). Mechanistically, BH3-interacting domain death agonist (Bid) transactivation-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction and nuclear receptor coactivator 4 (NCOA4)-mediated ferritinophagy or ferroptosis are likely common mechanisms of NPs regardless of their chemical composition. This study provides relatively comprehensive data for evaluating the risk of atmospheric NPs to lung health.

Therapeutic potential of esculetin in various cancer types (Review)

Esculetin (Esc), a coumarin derivative and herbal medicinal compound used in traditional Chinese medicine, is extracted from Fraxinus chinensis. Esc has shown notable potential in the inhibition of proliferation, metastasis and cell cycle arrest in various cancer cell lines. The present review is based on research articles regarding Esc in the field of carcinoma, published between 2009 and 2023. These studies have unanimously demonstrated that Esc can effectively inhibit cancer cell proliferation through diverse mechanisms and modulate multiple signaling pathways, such as Wnt/β-catenin, PI3K/Akt, MAPK and janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription-3. In addition, the safety profile of Esc has been demonstrated in credible animal experiments, which has indicated Esc as an effective compound. Furthermore, the combination therapy of Esc with commonly used chemotherapeutic drugs holds great promise. The aim of the present review was to encourage further studies and applications of Esc in cancer therapy.

Rhizoma Alismatis Decoction improved mitochondrial dysfunction to alleviate SASP by enhancing autophagy flux and apoptosis in hyperlipidemia acute pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an inflammatory disorder of the exocrine pancreas, especially hyperlipidemia acute pancreatitis (HLAP) is the third leading cause of acute pancreatitis which is more severe with a greater incidence of persistent multiorgan failure. HLAP inflicts injury upon the organelles within the acinar cell, particularly mitochondria, the endolysosomal-autophagy system, and is accompanied by senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). RAD, only two consists of Rhizoma Alismatis and Atractylodes macrocephala Rhizoma, which is best known for its ability to anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering. Nevertheless, the mechanism by which RAD alleviates HLAP remains obscure, necessitating further investigation.

PURPOSE

The study aimed to assess the effects of the RAD on HLAP and to elucidate the underlying mechanism in vivo and in vitro, offering a potential medicine for clinical treatment for HLAP.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

C57BL/6 mice with hyperlipidemia acute pancreatitis were induced by HFD and CER, then administrated with RAD. AR42J were stimulated by cerulein or conditioned medium and then cultured with RAD. Serums were analyzed to evaluate potential pancreas and liver damage. Furthermore, tissue samples were obtained for histological, and protein investigations by H&E, Oil red staining, and Western blot. In addition, western blot and immunofluorescent staining were utilized to estimate the effect of RAD on mitochondrial function, autophagy flux, and SASP.

RESULTS

In vivo, RAD considerably alleviated systemic inflammation while attenuating TC, TG, AMY, LPS, inflammatory cytokines, histopathology changes, oxidative damage, mitochondrial fission, and autophagy markers in HLAP mice. Impaired autophagy flux and mitochondrial dysfunction resulted in a significant enhancement of NLRP3 and IL-1β in the pancreas. RAD could reverse these changes. In vitro, RAD significantly restored mitochondrial membrane potential and oxidative phosphorylation levels. RAD decreased Beclin-1 and LC3-II expression and increased LAMP-1 and Parkin-Pink expression, which showed that RAD significantly ameliorated HLAP-induced damage to the mitochondria function by suppressing mitochondrial oxidative damage and enhancing autophagy flux and mitophagy to remove the damaged mitochondria. In addition, we found that RAD could up-regulate the expression of BAX, and Bad and down-regulate the expression of p16, and p21, indicating that RAD could promote damaged cell apoptosis and alleviate SASP.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed that RAD ameliorates mitochondrial function to alleviate SASP through enhancing autophagy flux, mitophagy, and apoptosis which provided a molecular basis for the advancement and development of protection strategies against HLAP.

The role of ferroptosis in acute kidney injury: mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is one of the most common and severe clinical renal syndromes with high morbidity and mortality. Ferroptosis is a form of programmed cell death (PCD), is characterized by iron overload, reactive oxygen species accumulation, and lipid peroxidation. As ferroptosis has been increasingly studied in recent years, it is closely associated with the pathophysiological process of AKI and provides a target for the treatment of AKI. This review offers a comprehensive overview of the regulatory mechanisms of ferroptosis, summarizes its role in various AKI models, and explores its interaction with other forms of cell death, it also presents research on ferroptosis in AKI progression to other diseases. Additionally, the review highlights methods for detecting and assessing AKI through the lens of ferroptosis and describes potential inhibitors of ferroptosis for AKI treatment. Finally, the review presents a perspective on the future of clinical AKI treatment, aiming to stimulate further research on ferroptosis in AKI.

Protective effects of pioglitazone in renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (RIRI): focus on oxidative stress and inflammation

BACKGROUND

Renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (RIRI) is a critical phenomenon that compromises renal function and is the most serious health concern related to acute kidney injury (AKI). Pioglitazone (Pio) is a known agonist of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-γ). PPAR-γ is a nuclear receptor that regulates genes involved in inflammation, metabolism, and cellular differentiation. Activation of PPAR-γ is associated with antiinflammatory and antioxidant effects, which are relevant to the pathophysiology of RIRI. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of Pio in RIRI, focusing on oxidative stress and inflammation.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive literature search using electronic databases, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar.

RESULTS

The results of this study demonstrated that Pio has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic activities that counteract the consequences of RIRI. The study also discussed the underlying mechanisms, including the modulation of various pathways such as TNF-α, NF-κB signaling systems, STAT3 pathway, KIM-1 and NGAL pathways, AMPK phosphorylation, and autophagy flux. Additionally, the study presented a summary of various animal studies that support the potential protective effects of Pio in RIRI.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that Pio could protect the kidneys from RIRI by improving antioxidant capacity and decreasing inflammation. Therefore, these findings support the potential of Pio as a therapeutic strategy for preventing RIRI in different clinical conditions.

Ferroptosis pathways: Unveiling the neuroprotective power of cistache deserticola phenylethanoid glycosides

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cistanche deserticola is a kind of parasitic plant living in the roots of desert trees. It is a rare Chinese medicine, which has the effect of tonifying kidney Yang, benefiting essence and blood and moistening the intestinal tract. Cistache deserticola phenylethanoid glycoside (PGS), an active component found in Cistanche deserticola Ma, have potential kidney tonifying, intellectual enhancing, and neuroprotective effects. Cistanche total glycoside capsule has been marketed to treat vascular dementia disease.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To identify the potential renal, intellectual enhancing and neuroprotective effects of PGS and explore the exact targets and mechanisms of PGS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study systematically investigated the four types of pathways leading to ferroptosis through transcriptome, metabolome, ultrastructure and molecular biology techniques and explored the molecular mechanism by which multiple PGS targets and pathways synergistically exert neuroprotective effects on hypoxia.

RESULTS

PGS alleviated learning and memory dysfunction and pathological injury in mice exposed to hypobaric hypoxia by attenuating hypobaric hypoxia-induced hippocampal histopathological damage, impairing blood‒brain barrier integrity, increasing oxidative stress levels, and increasing the expression of cognitive proteins. PGS reduced the formation of lipid peroxides and improved ferroptosis by upregulating the GPX-4/SCL7A311 axis and downregulating the ACSL4/LPCAT3/LOX axis. PGS also reduced ferroptosis by facilitating cellular Fe2+ efflux and regulating mitochondrial Fe2+ transport and effectively antagonized cell ferroptosis induced by erastin (a ferroptosis inducer).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated the mechanism by which PGS prevents hypobaric hypoxic nerve injury through four types of ferroptosis pathways, achieved neuroprotective effects and alleviated learning and memory dysfunction in hypobaric hypoxia mice. This study provides a theoretical basis for the development and application of PGS.

Mito-Tempo alleviates ox-LDL-provoked foam cell formation by regulating Nrf2/NLRP3 signaling

Our previous studies have demonstrated that Mito-Tempol (also known as 4-hydroxy-Tempo), a mitochondrial reactive oxygen species scavenger, alleviates oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-triggered foam cell formation. Given the effect of oxidative stress on activating the NOD-, LRR-, and pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, which promotes foam cell formation, we aimed to explore whether Mito-Tempo inhibits ox-LDL-triggered foam cell formation by regulating NLRP3 inflammasome. The results revealed that Mito-Tempo re-activated Nrf2 and alleviated macrophage foam cell formation induced by ox-LDL, whereas the effects were reversed by ML385 (a specific Nrf2 inhibitor). Mito-Tempo restored the expression and nuclear translocation of Nrf2 by decreasing ox-LDL-induced ubiquitination. Furthermore, Mito-Tempo suppressed ox-LDL-triggered NLRP3 inflammasome activation and subsequent pyroptosis, whereas the changes were blocked by ML385. Mito-Tempo decreased lipoprotein uptake by inhibiting CD36 expression and suppressed foam cell formation by regulating the NLRP3 inflammasome. Taken together, Mito-Tempo exhibits potent anti-atherosclerotic effects by regulating Nrf2/NLRP3 signaling.

The role of mitochondrial dysfunction in kidney injury and disease

Mitochondria are the main sites of aerobic respiration in the cell and mainly provide energy for the organism, and play key roles in adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis, metabolic regulation, and cell differentiation and death. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been identified as a contributing factor to a variety of diseases. The kidney is rich in mitochondria to meet energy needs, and stable mitochondrial structure and function are essential for normal kidney function. Recently, many studies have shown a link between mitochondrial dysfunction and kidney disease, maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis has become an important target for kidney therapy. In this review, we integrate the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in different kidney diseases, and specifically elaborate the mechanism of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS), autophagy and ferroptosis involved in the occurrence and development of kidney diseases, providing insights for improved treatment of kidney diseases.

Ferroptosis: principles and significance in health and disease

Ferroptosis, an iron-dependent form of cell death characterized by uncontrolled lipid peroxidation, is governed by molecular networks involving diverse molecules and organelles. Since its recognition as a non-apoptotic cell death pathway in 2012, ferroptosis has emerged as a crucial mechanism in numerous physiological and pathological contexts, leading to significant therapeutic advancements across a wide range of diseases. This review summarizes the fundamental molecular mechanisms and regulatory pathways underlying ferroptosis, including both GPX4-dependent and -independent antioxidant mechanisms. Additionally, we examine the involvement of ferroptosis in various pathological conditions, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, sepsis, ischemia-reperfusion injury, autoimmune disorders, and metabolic disorders. Specifically, we explore the role of ferroptosis in response to chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, nanotherapy, and targeted therapy. Furthermore, we discuss pharmacological strategies for modulating ferroptosis and potential biomarkers for monitoring this process. Lastly, we elucidate the interplay between ferroptosis and other forms of regulated cell death. Such insights hold promise for advancing our understanding of ferroptosis in the context of human health and disease.

International consensus guidelines for the definition, detection, and interpretation of autophagy-dependent ferroptosis

Macroautophagy/autophagy is a complex degradation process with a dual role in cell death that is influenced by the cell types that are involved and the stressors they are exposed to. Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent oxidative form of cell death characterized by unrestricted lipid peroxidation in the context of heterogeneous and plastic mechanisms. Recent studies have shed light on the involvement of specific types of autophagy (e.g. ferritinophagy, lipophagy, and clockophagy) in initiating or executing ferroptotic cell death through the selective degradation of anti-injury proteins or organelles. Conversely, other forms of selective autophagy (e.g. reticulophagy and lysophagy) enhance the cellular defense against ferroptotic damage. Dysregulated autophagy-dependent ferroptosis has implications for a diverse range of pathological conditions. This review aims to present an updated definition of autophagy-dependent ferroptosis, discuss influential substrates and receptors, outline experimental methods, and propose guidelines for interpreting the results.Abbreviation: 3-MA:3-methyladenine; 4HNE: 4-hydroxynonenal; ACD: accidentalcell death; ADF: autophagy-dependentferroptosis; ARE: antioxidant response element; BH2:dihydrobiopterin; BH4: tetrahydrobiopterin; BMDMs: bonemarrow-derived macrophages; CMA: chaperone-mediated autophagy; CQ:chloroquine; DAMPs: danger/damage-associated molecular patterns; EMT,epithelial-mesenchymal transition; EPR: electronparamagnetic resonance; ER, endoplasmic reticulum; FRET: Försterresonance energy transfer; GFP: green fluorescent protein;GSH: glutathione;IF: immunofluorescence; IHC: immunohistochemistry; IOP, intraocularpressure; IRI: ischemia-reperfusion injury; LAA: linoleamide alkyne;MDA: malondialdehyde; PGSK: Phen Green™ SK;RCD: regulatedcell death; PUFAs: polyunsaturated fatty acids; RFP: red fluorescentprotein;ROS: reactive oxygen species; TBA: thiobarbituricacid; TBARS: thiobarbituric acid reactive substances; TEM:transmission electron microscopy.

Metal-organic framework-mediated siRNA delivery and sonodynamic therapy for precisely triggering ferroptosis and augmenting ICD in osteosarcoma

The complex genomics, immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), and chemotherapeutic resistance of osteosarcoma (OS) have resulted in limited therapeutic effects in the clinic. Ferroptosis is involved in tumor progression and is regulated mainly by glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4). Small interfering RNA (siRNA)-based RNA interference (RNAi) can precisely target any gene. However, achieving effective siRNA delivery is highly challenging. Here, we fabricated a TME-responsive metal-organic framework (MOF)-based biomimetic nanosystem (mFeP@si) with siGPX4 delivery and sonodynamic therapy (SDT) to treat OS by targeting ferroptosis. Under ultrasound (US) irradiation, mFeP@si achieves lysosomal escape via singlet oxygen (1O2)-mediated lysosomal membrane disruption and then accelerates ROS generation and glutathione (GSH) depletion. Meanwhile, siGPX4 silences GPX4 expression by binding to GPX4 mRNA and leads to the accumulation of toxic phospholipid hydroperoxides (PL-OOH), further magnifying the ROS storm and triggering ferroptosis. Notably, synergistic therapy remarkably enhances antitumor effects, improves the immunosuppressive TME by inducing potent immunogenic cell death (ICD), and increases the sensitivity of chemotherapy-resistant OS cells to cisplatin. Overall, this novel nanosystem, which targets ferroptosis by integrating RNAi and SDT, exhibits strong antitumor effects both in vitro and in vivo, providing new insights for treating OS.

Kellerin alleviates cerebral ischemic injury by inhibiting ferroptosis via targeting Akt-mediated transcriptional activation of Nrf2

BACKGROUND

Ischemic stroke (IS) is characterized as a detrimental cerebrovascular disease with high mortality and disability. Ferroptosis is a novel mechanism involved in neuronal death. There is a close connection between IS and ferroptosis, and inhibiting ferroptosis may provide an effective strategy for treating IS. Our previous investigations have discovered that kellerin, the active compound of Ferula sinkiangensis K. M. Shen, possesses the capability to shield against cerebral ischemia injury.

PURPOSE

Our objective is to clarify the relationship between the neuroprotective properties of kellerin against IS and its ability to modulate ferroptosis, and investigate the underlying regulatory pathway.

STUDY DESIGN

We investigated the impact and mechanism of kellerin in C57BL/6 mice underwent middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) as well as SH-SY5Y cells exposed to oxygen-glucose deprivation/ re-oxygenation (OGD/R).

METHODS

The roles of kellerin on neurological severity, cerebral infarction and edema were investigated in vivo. The regulatory impacts of kellerin on ferroptosis, mitochondrial damage and Akt/Nrf2 pathway were explored. Molecular docking combined with drug affinity responsive target stability assay (DARTS) and cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA) were performed to analyze the potential target proteins for kellerin.

RESULTS

Kellerin protected against IS and inhibited ferroptosis in vivo. Meanwhile, kellerin improved the neuronal damage caused by OGD/R and suppressed ferroptosis by inhibiting the production of mitochondrial ROS in vitro. Further we found that kellerin directly interacted with Akt and enhanced its phosphorylation, leading to the increase of Nrf2 nuclear translocation and its downstream antioxidant genes expression. Moreover, kellerin's inhibitory effect on ferroptosis and mitochondrial ROS release was eliminated by inhibiting Akt/Nrf2 pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study firstly demonstrates that the neuroprotective properties of kellerin against IS are related to suppressing ferroptosis through inhibiting the production of mitochondrial ROS, in which its modulation on Akt-mediated transcriptional activation of Nrf2 plays an important role. This finding shed light on the potential mechanism that kellerin exerts therapeutic effects in IS.

Lipotoxicity: The missing link between diabetes and periodontitis?

Lipotoxicity refers to the accumulation of lipids in tissues other than adipose tissue (body fat). It is one of the major pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for the progression of diabetes complications such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and diabetic nephropathy. Accumulating evidence indicates that lipotoxicity also contributes significantly to the toxic effects of diabetes on periodontitis. Therefore, we reviewed the current in vivo, in vitro, and clinical evidence of the detrimental effects of lipotoxicity on periodontitis, focusing on its molecular mechanisms, especially oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum stress, inflammation, ceramides, adipokines, and programmed cell death pathways. By elucidating potential therapeutic strategies targeting lipotoxicity and describing their associated mechanisms and clinical outcomes, including metformin, statins, liraglutide, adiponectin, and omega-3 PUFA, this review seeks to provide a more comprehensive and effective treatment framework against diabetes-associated periodontitis. Furthermore, the challenges and future research directions are proposed, aiming to contribute to a more profound understanding of the impact of lipotoxicity on periodontitis.

Cadmium exposure induced neuronal ferroptosis and cognitive deficits via the mtROS-ferritinophagy pathway

Exposure to environmental cadmium (Cd) is known to cause neuronal death and cognitive decline in humans. Ferroptosis, a novel iron-dependent type of regulated cell death, is involved in various neurological disorders. In the present study, Cd exposure triggered ferroptosis in the mouse hippocampus and in the HT22 murine hippocampal neuronal cell line, as indicated by significant increases in ferroptotic marker expression, intracellular iron levels, and lipid peroxidation. Interestingly, ferroptosis of hippocampal neurons in response to Cd exposure relied on the induction of autophagy since the suppression of autophagy by 3-methyladenine (3-MA) and chloroquine (CQ) substantially ameliorated Cd-induced ferroptosis. Furthermore, nuclear receptor coactivator 4 (NCOA4)-mediated degradation of ferritin was required for the Cd-induced ferroptosis of hippocampal neurons, demonstrating that NCOA4 knockdown decreased intracellular iron levels and lipid peroxidation and increased cell survival, following Cd exposure. Moreover, Cd-induced mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) generation was essential for the ferritinophagy-mediated ferroptosis of hippocampal neurons. Importantly, pretreatment with the ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1) effectively attenuated Cd-induced hippocampal neuronal death and cognitive impairment in mice. Taken together, these findings indicate that ferroptosis is a novel mechanism underlying Cd-induced neurotoxicity and cognitive impairment and that the mtROS-ferritinophagy axis modulates Cd-induced neuronal ferroptosis.

Ferroptosis: a potential therapeutic target for stroke

Ferroptosis is a form of regulated cell death characterized by massive iron accumulation and iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, differing from apoptosis, necroptosis, and autophagy in several aspects. Ferroptosis is regarded as a critical mechanism of a series of pathophysiological reactions after stroke because of iron overload caused by hemoglobin degradation and iron metabolism imbalance. In this review, we discuss ferroptosis-related metabolisms, important molecules directly or indirectly targeting iron metabolism and lipid peroxidation, and transcriptional regulation of ferroptosis, revealing the role of ferroptosis in the progression of stroke. We present updated progress in the intervention of ferroptosis as therapeutic strategies for stroke in vivo and in vitro and summarize the effects of ferroptosis inhibitors on stroke. Our review facilitates further understanding of ferroptosis pathogenesis in stroke, proposes new targets for the treatment of stroke, and suggests that more efforts should be made to investigate the mechanism of ferroptosis in stroke.

Co-exposure of arsenic and polystyrene-nanoplastics induced kidney injury by disrupting mitochondrial homeostasis and mtROS-mediated ferritinophagy and ferroptosis

Arsenic (As) and polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPs) co-exposure induced biotoxicity and ecological risks have attracted wide attention. However, the combined effects of As and PSNPs on the kidney and their underlying mechanisms of toxicities remain to be explored. Here, we investigated the effects of As and PSNPs co-exposure on structure and function in mice kidney, and further explored the possible mechanisms. In this study, we identified that co-exposure to As and PSNPs exhibited conspicuous renal structural damage and pathological changes, accompanied by renal tissue fibrosis (increased protein expression of Collagen I and α-SMA and deposition of collagen fibers), whereas alone exposure to As or PSNPs does not exhibit nephrotoxicity. Subsequently, our results further showed that combined action of As and PSNPs induced mitochondrial oxidative damage and impaired mitochondrial dynamic balance. Furthermore, co-treatment with As and PSNPs activated NCOA4-mediated ferritinophagy and ferroptosis in mice kidney and TCMK-1 cells, which was confirmed by the changes in the expression of ferritinophagy and ferroptosis related indicators (NCOA4, LC3, ATG5, ATG7, FTH1, FTL, GPX4, SLC7A11, FSP1, ACSL4 and PTGS2). Meaningfully, pretreatment with the mtROS-targeted scavenger Mito-TEMPO significantly attenuated As and PSNPs co-exposure induced mitochondrial damage, ferritinophagy and ferroptosis. In conclusion, these findings demonstrated that mtROS-dependent ferritinophagy and ferroptosis are important factors in As and PSNPs co-exposure induced kidney injury and fibrosis. This study provides a new insight into the study of combined toxicity of nanoplastics and heavy metal pollutants.

MitoQ protects against carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatocyte ferroptosis and acute liver injury by suppressing mtROS-mediated ACSL4 upregulation

Ferroptosis has been shown to be involved in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced acute liver injury (ALI). The mitochondrion-targeted antioxidant MitoQ can eliminate the production of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS). This study investigated the role of MitoQ in CCl4-induced hepatocytic ferroptosis and ALI. MDA and 4HNE were elevated in CCl4-induced mice. In vitro, CCl4 exposure elevated the levels of oxidized lipids in HepG2 cells. Alterations in the mitochondrial ultrastructure of hepatocytes were observed in the livers of CCl4-evoked mice. Ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1) attenuated CCl4-induced hepatic lipid peroxidation, mitochondrial ultrastructure alterations and ALI. Mechanistically, acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 4 (ACSL4) was upregulated in CCl4-exposed human hepatocytes and mouse livers. The ACSL4 inhibitor rosiglitazone alleviated CCl4-induced hepatic lipid peroxidation and ALI. ACSL4 knockdown inhibited oxidized lipids in CCl4-exposed human hepatocytes. Moreover, CCl4 exposure decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential and OXPHOS subunit levels and increased the mtROS level in HepG2 cells. Correspondingly, MitoQ pretreatment inhibited the upregulation of ACSL4 in CCl4-evoked mouse livers and HepG2 cells. MitoQ attenuated lipid peroxidation in vivo and in vitro after CCl4 exposure. Finally, MitoQ pretreatment alleviated CCl4-induced hepatocytic ferroptosis and ALI. These findings suggest that MitoQ protects against hepatocyte ferroptosis in CCl4-induced ALI via the mtROS-ACSL4 pathway.

Pharmacological approaches for targeting lysosomes to induce ferroptotic cell death in cancer

Lysosomes are crucial organelles responsible for the degradation of cytosolic materials and bulky organelles, thereby facilitating nutrient recycling and cell survival. However, lysosome also acts as an executioner of cell death, including ferroptosis, a distinctive form of regulated cell death that hinges on iron-dependent phospholipid peroxidation. The initiation of ferroptosis necessitates three key components: substrates (membrane phospholipids enriched with polyunsaturated fatty acids), triggers (redox-active irons), and compromised defence mechanisms (GPX4-dependent and -independent antioxidant systems). Notably, iron assumes a pivotal role in ferroptotic cell death, particularly in the context of cancer, where iron and oncogenic signaling pathways reciprocally reinforce each other. Given the lysosomes' central role in iron metabolism, various strategies have been devised to harness lysosome-mediated iron metabolism to induce ferroptosis. These include the re-mobilization of iron from intracellular storage sites such as ferritin complex and mitochondria through ferritinophagy and mitophagy, respectively. Additionally, transcriptional regulation of lysosomal and autophagy genes by TFEB enhances lysosomal function. Moreover, the induction of lysosomal iron overload can lead to lysosomal membrane permeabilization and subsequent cell death. Extensive screening and individually studies have explored pharmacological interventions using clinically available drugs and phytochemical agents. Furthermore, a drug delivery system involving ferritin-coated nanoparticles has been specifically tailored to target cancer cells overexpressing TFRC. With the rapid advancements in understandings the mechanistic underpinnings of ferroptosis and iron metabolism, it is increasingly evident that lysosomes represent a promising target for inducing ferroptosis and combating cancer.

Relationship of mTORC1 and ferroptosis in tumors

Ferroptosis is a novel form of programmed death, dependent on iron ions and oxidative stress, with a predominant intracellular form of lipid peroxidation. In recent years, ferroptosis has gained more and more interest of people in the treatment mechanism of targeted tumors. mTOR, always overexpressed in the tumor, and controlling cell growth and metabolic activities, has an important role in both autophagy and ferroptosis. Interestingly, the selective types of autophay plays an important role in promoting ferroptosis, which is related to mTOR and some metabolic pathways (especially in iron and amino acids). In this paper, we list the main mechanisms linking ferroptosis with mTOR signaling pathway and further summarize the current compounds targeting ferroptosis in these ways. There are growing experimental evidences that targeting mTOR and ferroptosis may have effective impact in many tumors, and understanding the mechanisms linking mTOR to ferroptosis could provide a potential therapeutic approach for tumor treatment.

Sodium sulfite triggered hepatic apoptosis, necroptosis, and pyroptosis by inducing mitochondrial damage in mice and AML-12 cells

Sodium sulfite (SS) is a biological derivative of the air pollutant sulfur dioxide, and is often used as a food and pharmaceutical additive. Improper or excessive SS exposure in liver cell death. The phenomenon of simultaneous regulation of apoptosis, necroptosis, and pyroptosis is defined as PANoptosis. However, the specific types of programmed cell death (PCD) caused by SS and their interconnections remain unclear. In the present study, C57BL/6 mice were orally administered SS for 30 d, consecutively, to establish an in vivo mouse exposure model. AML-12 cells were treated with SS for 24 h to establish an in vitro exposure model. The results showed that SS-induced mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) accumulation activated the BAX/Bcl-2/caspase 3 pathway to trigger apoptosis and RIPK1/RIPK3/p-MLKL to trigger necroptosis. Interestingly, ROS-activated p-MLKL perforated not the cell membrane as well as the lysosomal membrane. We determined that p-MLKL mediates lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP), resulting in cathepsin B (CTSB) release. Furthermore, knockdown of MLKL, a CTSB inhibitor (CA074-ME) and an NLRP3 inhibitor (MCC950) alleviated SS-induced pyroptosis. In summary, our study showed that SS induced apoptosis and necroptosis though mtROS accumulation, whereas the activation of p-MLKL mediated NLRP3-dependent pyroptosis by causing CTSB leakage through LMP. This study comprehensively explored the mechanism unerlying SS-induced PCD and provided an experimental basis for p-MLKL as a potential regulatory protein in PANoptosis.

The role of regulated necrosis in diabetes and its complications

Morphologically, cell death can be divided into apoptosis and necrosis. Apoptosis, which is a type of regulated cell death, is well tolerated by the immune system and is responsible for hemostasis and cellular turnover under physiological conditions. In contrast, necrosis is defined as a form of passive cell death that leads to a dramatic inflammatory response (also referred to as necroinflammation) and causes organ dysfunction under pathological conditions. Recently, a novel form of cell death named regulated necrosis (such as necroptosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis) was discovered. Distinct from apoptosis, regulated necrosis is modulated by multiple internal or external factors, but meanwhile, it results in inflammation and immune response. Accumulating evidence has indicated that regulated necrosis is associated with multiple diseases, including diabetes. Diabetes is characterized by hyperglycemia caused by insulin deficiency and/or insulin resistance, and long-term high glucose leads to various diabetes-related complications. Here, we summarize the mechanisms of necroptosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis, and introduce recent advances in characterizing the associations between these three types of regulated necrosis and diabetes and its complications.

Role of ferroptosis in food-borne mycotoxin-induced toxicities

Contamination by toxic substances is a major global food safety issue, which poses a serious threat to human health. Mycotoxins are major class of food contaminants, mainly including aflatoxins (AFs), zearalenone (ZON), deoxynivalenol (DON), ochratoxin A (OTA), fumonisins (FBs) and patulin (PAT). Ferroptosis is a newly identified iron-dependent form of programmed or regulated cell death, which has been found to be involved in diverse pathological conditions. Recently, a growing body of evidence has shown that ferroptosis is implicated in the toxicities induced by certain types of food-borne mycotoxins, which provides novel mechanistic insights into mycotoxin-induced toxicities and paves the way for developing ferroptosis-based strategy to combat against toxicities of mycotoxins. In this review article, we summarize the key findings on the involvement of ferroptosis in mycotoxin-induced toxicities and propose issues that need to be addressed in future studies for better utilization of ferroptosis-based approach to manage the toxic effects of mycotoxin contamination.

Mitochondria-mediated Ferroptosis in Diseases Therapy: From Molecular Mechanisms to Implications

Ferroptosis, a type of cell death involving iron and lipid peroxidation, has been found to be closely associated with the development of many diseases. Mitochondria are vital components of eukaryotic cells, serving important functions in energy production, cellular metabolism, and apoptosis regulation. Presently, the precise relationship between mitochondria and ferroptosis remains unclear. In this study, we aim to systematically elucidate the mechanisms via which mitochondria regulate ferroptosis from multiple perspectives to provide novel insights into mitochondrial functions in ferroptosis. Additionally, we present a comprehensive overview of how mitochondria contribute to ferroptosis in different conditions, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, inflammatory disease, mitochondrial DNA depletion syndrome, and novel coronavirus pneumonia. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the involvement of mitochondria in ferroptosis could lead to more effective approaches for both basic cell biology studies and medical treatments.

Site 1 protease aggravates acute kidney injury by promoting tubular epithelial cell ferroptosis through SIRT3-SOD2-mtROS signaling

Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R)-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common clinical syndrome with high morbidity and mortality. Ferroptosis, a newly discovered form of oxidative cell death, is involved in the pathogenesis of renal I/R injury; however, the underlying mechanism remains to be explored. Here, we reported that site 1 protease (S1P) promotes ischemic kidney injury by regulating ferroptotic cell death of tubular epithelial cells. S1P abundance was measured in hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-treated Boston University mouse proximal tubular (BUMPT) cells and I/R-induced murine kidney tissue. S1P expression in BUMPT cells and kidneys was initially activated by hypoxic stimulation, accompanied by the ferroptotic response. Blocking S1P blunted H/R-induced ferroptotic cell death, which also restored sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) expression and superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) activity in BUMPT cells. Next, inhibition of S1P expression restored I/R-suppressed SIRT3 abundance, SOD2 activity and reduced the elevated level of mitochondria reactive oxygen species (mtROS), which attenuated tubular cell ferroptosis and renal I/R injury. In conclusion, S1P promoted renal tubular epithelial cell ferroptosis under I/R status by activating SIRT3-SOD2-mtROS signaling, thereby accelerating kidney injury. Thus, targeting S1P signaling may serve as a promising strategy for I/R kidney injury.

Associations of arsenic exposure and arsenic metabolism with the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Growing evidences supported that arsenic exposure contributes to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) risk, but findings were still inconsistent. Additionally, once absorbed, arsenic is methylated into monomethyl and dimethyl arsenicals. However, no studies investigated the association of arsenic metabolism with NAFLD. Our objectives were to evaluate the associations of arsenic exposure and arsenic metabolism with NAFLD prevalence. We conducted a case-control study with 1790 participants derived from Dongfeng-Tongji cohort and measured arsenic species (arsenite, arsenate, monomethylarsonate [MMA], dimethylarsinate [DMA], and arsenobetaine) in urine. Arsenic exposure (∑As) was defined as the sum of inorganic arsenic (iAs), MMA, and DMA. Arsenic metabolism was evaluated as the proportions of inorganic-related species (iAs%, MMA%, and DMA%) and methylation efficiency ratios (primary methylation index [PMI], secondary methylation index [SMI]). NAFLD was diagnosed by liver ultrasound. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the associations. The median of ∑As was 13.24 μg/g creatinine. The ∑As showed positive and nonlinear association with moderate/severe NAFLD (OR: per log-SD = 1.33, 95% CI: [1.03,1.71]; Pfor nonlinearity = 0.021). The iAs% (OR: per SD = 1.16, 95% CI: [1.03,1.30]) and SMI (OR: per log-SD = 1.16, 95% CI: [1.03,1.31]) showed positive while MMA% (OR: per SD = 0.80, 95% CI: [0.70,0.91]) and PMI (OR: per log-SD = 0.86, 95% CI: [0.77,0.96]) showed inverse associations with NAFLD. Moreover, the ORs (95% CI) of NAFLD for each 5% increase in iAs% was 1.36 (1.17,1.58) when MMA% decreased and 1.07 (1.01,1.13) when DMA% decreased; and for each 5% increase in MMA%, it was 0.74 (0.63,0.86) and 0.79 (0.69,0.91) when iAs% and DMA% decreased, respectively. The results suggest that inorganic arsenic exposure is positively associated with NAFLD risk and arsenic methylation efficiency plays a role in the NAFLD. The findings provide clues to explore potential interventions for the prevention of NAFLD. Prospective studies are needed to validate our findings.

A regulatory module comprising G3BP1-FBXL5-IRP2 axis determines sodium arsenite-induced ferroptosis

Arsenic contamination is extremely threatening to the global public health. It was reported that sodium arsenite exposure induces serious kidney injury. However, the underlying mechanism is unclear. Ferroptosis is a newly characterized form of iron-dependent programmed cell death, which is implicated in the pathogenesis of various human diseases, including kidney injury. The lethal accumulation of iron-catalyzed lipid peroxidation is the fundamental biochemical characteristic of ferroptosis. Herein we report that sodium arsenite exposure initiates ferroptosis in mammalian HEK293, MEF and HT1080 cells, and induces ferroptosis-associated acute kidney injury in mice. RNA-binding protein G3BP1, the switch component of stress granules, is indispensable for sodium arsenite-induced ferroptosis in a stress granule-independent manner. Mechanistically, G3BP1 stabilizes IRP2, the master regulator of cellular iron homeostasis, through binding to and suppressing the translation of FBXL5 mRNA, which encodes the E3 ligase component to mediate IRP2 ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. Sodium arsenite intoxication expedites this G3BP1-FBXL5-IRP2 axis and elevates cellular labile free iron, which is responsible for sodium arsenite exposure-induced lipid peroxidation and ferroptotic cell death. In summary, this study highlights a regulatory module comprising G3BP1-FBXL5-IRP2 axis in determining sodium arsenite-induced ferroptosis and ferroptosis-associated acute kidney injury in mice.

METTL3/YTHDF2 m6A axis mediates the progression of diabetic nephropathy through epigenetically suppressing PINK1 and mitophagy

AIMS

This research aimed to investigate the specific mechanism of methyltransferase like 3 (METTL3) in the progression of diabetic kidney disease (DKD).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The model of diabetic kidney disease was established with HK-2 cells and mice in vitro and in vivo. The N6 methyladenosine (m6A) contents in the cells and tissues were detected with a commercial kit and the m6A levels of PTEN induced putative kinase 1 (PINK2) were detected with a MeRIP kit. The mRNA and protein levels were determined with RT-qPCR and western blot. The ROS, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels were assessed with ELISA. The cell proliferative ability was measured by a CCK-8 assay and cell apoptosis was determined with TUNEL staining. The HE and Masson staining was performed to observe the renal morphology. The RIP assay was conducted to detect the interaction between METTL3/YTHDF2 and PINK1.

RESULTS

The m6A content and METTL3 levels were prominently elevated in diabetic kidney disease. METTL3 silencing promoted the cell growth and the expression of LC3 II, PINK1, and Parkin, while inhibiting the cell apoptosis and the expression of LC3 I and p62 in the high glucose (HG) stimulated HK-2 cells. METTL3 silencing also decreased the ROS, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels in diabetic kidney disease. PINK1 silencing neutralized the function of sh-METTL3 in the HG stimulated HK-2 cells. The HE and Masson staining showed that METTL3 silencing alleviated the kidney injury induced by DKD. METTL3 silencing decreased the m6A levels of PINK1, while increased the mRNA levels of PINK1 which depended on YTHDF2.

CONCLUSIONS

METTL3 silencing could inhibit the progression of diabetic nephropathy in vivo and in vitro by regulating the m6A modification of PINK1, which depends on YTHDF2. Our research lays the theoretical foundation for the precise treatment of diabetic kidney disease and the development of targeted drugs in the future.

Ultrasound-enhanced nano catalyst with ferroptosis-apoptosis combined anticancer strategy for metastatic uveal melanoma

Uveal melanoma is the most common primary ocular tumor owing to its highly invasive and metastatic characteristics. Currently, standard clinical treatment has an unsatisfied curative effect due to the lack of an effective approach to inhibit the tumor metastasis. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a new strategy that can both restraint local tumors and suppress the ocular tumor metastasis. Herein, we developed ultrasound-responsive nanoparticles (FeP NPs) that can both hinder the growth of in situ ocular tumor and prevent the tumor metastasis through the ferroptosis-apoptosis combined-anticancer strategy. The FeP NPs were assembling by stimulating gallic acid-Fe (III) and paclitaxel, then could be internalized into tumor cells under the cooperative effect of ultrasound, which further activates the intracellular Fenton reaction and generates high reactive oxygen species levels, ultimately leading to mitochondrial damage, lipid per-oxidation, and apoptosis. The FeP NPs can efficiently inhibit the tumor growth in an orthotopic uveal melanoma model. More importantly, the level of the promoting-metastatic factor nerve growth factor receptor (NGFR) secreted by cancer cells is significantly reduced, further limits cancer metastasis to the cervical lymph node and finally inhibits lung metastasis of uveal melanoma. We believe that these designed ultrasound-enhanced nanoparticles possess potential clinical application for preventing the regeneration and metastasis of uveal melanoma.

Bisphenol A induces placental ferroptosis and fetal growth restriction via the YAP/TAZ-ferritinophagy axis

Exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) during gestation leads to fetal growth restriction (FGR), whereby the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Here, we found that FGR patients showed higher levels of BPA in the urine, serum, and placenta; meanwhile, trophoblast ferroptosis was observed in FGR placentas, as indicated by accumulated intracellular iron, impaired antioxidant molecules, and increased lipid peroxidation products. To investigate the role of ferroptosis in placental and fetal growth, BPA stimulation was performed both in vivo and in vitro. BPA exposure during gestation was associated with FGR in mice; also, it induces ferroptosis in mouse placentas and human placental trophoblast. Pretreatment with ferroptosis inhibitor ferritin-1 (Fer-1) alleviated BPA-induced oxidative damage and cell death. Notably, BPA reduced the trophoblastic expression of Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), which regulated tissue growth and organ size. YAP or TAZ siRNA enhanced BPA-induced ferroptosis, suggesting that trophoblast ferroptosis is dependent on YAP/TAZ downregulation after BPA stimulation. Consistently, the protein levels of YAP/TAZ were also reduced in FGR placentas. Further results revealed that silencing YAP/TAZ promoted BPA-induced ferroptosis through autophagy. Pretreatment with autophagy inhibitor chloroquine (CQ) attenuated BPA-induced trophoblast ferroptosis. Ferritinophagy, an autophagic degradation of ferritin (FTH1), was observed in FGR placentas. Similarly, BPA reduced the protein level of FTH1 in placental trophoblast. Pretreatment with iron chelator desferrioxamine (DFO) and NCOA4 (an autophagy cargo receptor) siRNA weakened the ferroptosis of trophoblast after exposure to BPA, indicating that autophagy mediates ferroptosis in BPA-stimulated trophoblast by degrading ferritin. In summary, ferroptosis was featured in BPA-associated FGR and trophoblast injury; the regulation of ferroptosis involved the YAP/TAZ-autophagy-ferritin axis.

Chlorantraniliprole induces mitophagy, ferroptosis, and cytokine homeostasis imbalance in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) hepatocytes via the mtROS-mitochondrial fission/fusion axis

Chlorantraniliprole (CAP) is a bis-amide pesticide used for pest control mainly in agricultural production activities and rice-fish co-culture systems. CAP residues cause liver damage in non-target organism freshwater fish. However, it is unclear whether CAP-exposure-induced liver injury in fish is associated with mitochondrial dysfunction-mediated mitophagy, ferroptosis, and cytokines. Therefore, we established grass carp hepatocyte models exposed to different concentrations of CAP (20, 40, and 80 μM) in vitro. MitoSOX probe, JC-1 staining, immunofluorescence double staining, Fe2+ staining, lipid peroxidation staining, qRT-PCR, and Western blot were used to verify the physiological regulatory mechanism of CAP induced liver injury. In the present study, the CAP-treated groups exhibited down-regulation of antioxidant-related enzyme activities and accumulation of peroxides. CAP treatment induced an increase in mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) levels and altered expression of mitochondrial fission/fusion (Drp1, Fis1, Mfn1, Mfn2, and Opa1) genes in grass carp hepatocytes. In addition, mitophagy (Parkin, Pink1, p62, LC3II/I, and Beclin-1), ferroptosis (GPX4, COX2, ACSL4, FTH, and NCOA4), and cytokine (IFN-γ, IL-18, IL-17, IL-6, IL-10, IL-1β, IL-2, and TNF-α)-related gene expression was significantly altered. Collectively, these findings suggest that CAP exposure drives mitophagy activation, ferroptosis occurrence, and cytokine homeostasis imbalance in grass carp hepatocytes by triggering mitochondrial dysfunction mediated by the mtROS-mitochondrial fission/fusion axis. This study partly explained the physiological regulation mechanism of grass carp hepatocyte injury induced by insecticide CAP from the physiological and biochemical point of view and provided a basis for evaluating the safety of CAP environmental residues to non-target organisms.

Rasd1 is involved in white matter injury through neuron-oligodendrocyte communication after subarachnoid hemorrhage

AIMS

Rasd1 has been reported to be correlated with neurotoxicity, metabolism, and rhythm, but its effect in case of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) remained unclear. White matter injury (WMI) and ferroptosis participate in the early brain injury (EBI) after SAH. In this work, we have investigated whether Rasd1 can cause ferroptosis and contribute to SAH-induced WMI.

METHODS

Lentivirus for Rasd1 knockdown/overexpression was administrated by intracerebroventricular (i.c.v) injection at 7 days before SAH induction. SAH grade, brain water content, short- and long-term neurobehavior, Western blot, real-time PCR, ELISA, biochemical estimation, immunofluorescence, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were systematically performed. Additionally, genipin, a selective uncoupling protein 2(UCP2) inhibitor, was used in primary neuron and oligodendrocyte co-cultures for further in vitro mechanistic studies.

RESULTS

Rasd1 knockdown has improved the neurobehavior, glia polarization, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, ferroptosis, and demyelination. Conversely, Rasd1 overexpression aggravated these changes by elevating the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), inflammatory cytokines, MDA, free iron, and NCOA4, as well as contributing to the decrease of the levels of UCP2, GPX4, ferritin, and GSH mechanistically. According to the in vitro study, Rasd1 can induce oligodendrocyte ferroptosis through inhibiting UCP2, increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS), and activating NCOA4-mediated ferritinophagy.

CONCLUSIONS

It can be concluded that Rasd1 exerts a modulated role in oligodendrocytes ferroptosis in WMI following SAH.

Apomorphine is a potent inhibitor of ferroptosis independent of dopaminergic receptors

Originally, apomorphine was a broad-spectrum dopamine agonist with an affinity for all subtypes of the Dopamine D1 receptor to the D5 receptor. We previously identified apomorphine as a potential therapeutic agent for mitochondrial diseases by screening a chemical library of fibroblasts from patients with mitochondrial diseases. In this study, we showed that apomorphine prevented ferroptosis in fibroblasts from various types of mitochondrial diseases as well as in normal controls. Well-known biomarkers of ferroptosis include protein markers such as prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2), a key gene for ferroptosis-related inflammation PTGS2, lipid peroxidation, and reactive oxygen species. Our findings that apomorphine induced significant downregulation of PTSG2 and suppressed lipid peroxide to the same extent as other inhibitors of ferroptosis also indicate that apomorphine suppresses ferroptosis. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report that the anti-ferroptosis effect of apomorphine is not related to dopamine receptor agonist action and that apomorphine is a potent inhibitor of ferroptotic cell death independent of dopaminergic receptors.

Arsenic disturbs neural tube closure involving AMPK/PKB-mTORC1-mediated autophagy in mice

Arsenic exposure is a significant risk factor for folate-resistant neural tube defects (NTDs), but the potential mechanism is unclear. In this study, a mouse model of arsenic-induced NTDs was established to investigate how arsenic affects early neurogenesis leading to malformations. The results showed that in utero exposure to arsenic caused a decline in the normal embryos, an elevated embryo resorption, and a higher incidence of malformed embryos. Cranial and spinal deformities were the main malformation phenotypes observed. Meanwhile, arsenic-induced NTDs were accompanied by an oxidant/antioxidant imbalance manifested by elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and decreased antioxidant activities. In addition, changes in the expression of autophagy-related genes and proteins (ULK1, Atg5, LC3B, p62) as well as an increase in autophagosomes were observed in arsenic-induced aberrant brain vesicles. Also, the components of the upstream pathway regulating autophagy (AMPK, PKB, mTOR, Raptor) were altered accordingly after arsenic exposure. Collectively, our findings propose a mechanism for arsenic-induced NTDs involving AMPK/PKB-mTORC1-mediated autophagy. Blocking autophagic cell death due to excessive autophagy provides a novel strategy for the prevention of folate-resistant NTDs, especially for arsenic-exposed populations.

Mesenchymal stem cells and ferroptosis: Clinical opportunities and challenges

Objective

This review discusses recent experimental and clinical findings related to ferroptosis, with a focus on the role of MSCs. Therapeutic efficacy and current applications of MSC-based ferroptosis therapies are also discussed.

Background

Ferroptosis is a type of programmed cell death that differs from apoptosis, necrosis, and autophagy; it involves iron metabolism and is related to the pathogenesis of many diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, cancers, and liver diseases. In recent years, the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and MSC-derived exosomes has become a trend in cell-free therapies. MSCs are a heterogeneous cell population isolated from a diverse range of human tissues that exhibit immunomodulatory functions, regulate cell growth, and repair damaged tissues. In addition, accumulating evidence indicates that MSC-derived exosomes play an important role, mainly by carrying a variety of bioactive substances that affect recipient cells. The potential mechanism by which MSC-derived exosomes mediate the effects of MSCs on ferroptosis has been previously demonstrated. This review provides the first overview of the current knowledge on ferroptosis, MSCs, and MSC-derived exosomes and highlights the potential application of MSCs exosomes in the treatment of ferroptotic conditions. It summarizes their mechanisms of action and techniques for enhancing MSC functionality. Results obtained from a large number of experimental studies revealed that both local and systemic administration of MSCs effectively suppressed ferroptosis in injured hepatocytes, neurons, cardiomyocytes, and nucleus pulposus cells and promoted the survival and regeneration of injured organs.

Methods

We reviewed the role of ferroptosis in related tissues and organs, focusing on its characteristics in different diseases. Additionally, the effects of MSCs and MSC-derived exosomes on ferroptosis-related pathways in various organs were reviewed, and the mechanism of action was elucidated. MSCs were shown to improve the disease course by regulating ferroptosis.

Proteome signatures of joint toxicity to arsenic (As) and lead (Pb) in human brain organoids with optic vesicles

Arsenic (As) and lead (Pb) are toxins found in the natural surroundings, and the harmful health outcomes caused by the co-exposure of such toxins have become a considerable problem. However, the joint neurotoxicity of As and Pb to neurodevelopment and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Pluripotent stem cell-derived human brain organoids are emerging animal model alternatives for understanding neurological-related diseases. Therefore, we utilized brain organoids with optic vesicles (OVB-organoids) to systematically analyze the neurotoxicity of As and Pb. After 24 h of As and/or Pb exposure, hematoxylin-eosin staining revealed that As and Pb exposure could cause disorders in the structure of the ventricular zone and general cell disarrangement in OVB-organoids. Immunostaining displayed that OVB-organoids are more susceptible to As and Pb co-exposure than independent exposure in apoptosis, proliferation, and cell differentiation. Meanwhile, even though As and Pb could both hinder cell proliferation, contrary to Pb, As could induce an increasing proportion of mitotic (G2/M) cells. The proteome landscape of OVB-organoids illustrated that Pb synergized with As in G2/M arrest and the common role of As and Pb in carcinogenesis. Besides, proteomics analyses suggested the consequential role of autophagy and Wnt pathway in the neurotoxicity of As and Pb co-exposure. Overall, our findings provide penetrating insights into the cell cycle, carcinogenesis, autophagy, and Wnt pathway underlying the As and Pb binary exposure scenarios, which could enhance our understanding of the mixture neurotoxicity mechanisms.

Bioinformatics and Integrative Experimental Method to Identifying and Validating Co-Expressed Ferroptosis-Related Genes in OA Articular Cartilage and Synovium

Purpose

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disease worldwide and is the primary cause of disability and chronic pain in older adults.Ferroptosis is a type of programmed cell death characterized by aberrant iron metabolism and reactive oxygen species accumulation; however, its role in OA is not known.

Methods

To identify ferroptosis markers co-expressed in articular cartilage and synovium samples from patients with OA, in silico analysis was performed.Signature genes were analyzed and the results were evaluated using a ROC curve prediction model.The biological function, correlation between Signature genes, immune cell infiltration, and ceRNA network analyses were performed. Signature genes and ferroptosis phenotypes were verified through in vivo animal experiments and clinical samples. The expression levels of non-coding RNAs in samples from patients with OA were determined using qRT-PCR. ceRNA network analysis results were confirmed using dual-luciferase assays.

Results

JUN, ATF3, and CDKN1A were identified as OA- and ferroptosis-associated signature genes. GSEA analysis demonstrated an enrichment of these genes in immune and inflammatory responses, and amino acid metabolism. The CIBERSORT algorithm showed a negative correlation between T cells and these signature genes in the cartilage, and a positive correlation in the synovium. Moreover, RP5-894D12.5 and FAM95B1 regulated the expression of JUN, ATF3, and CDKN1A by competitively binding to miR-1972, miR-665, and miR-181a-2-3p. In vivo, GPX4 was downregulated in both OA cartilage and synovium; however, GPX4 and GSH were downregulated, while ferrous ions were upregulated in patient OA cartilage and synovium samples, indicating that ferroptosis was involved in the pathogenesis of OA. Furthermore, JUN, ATF3, and CDKN1A expression was downregulated in both mouse and human OA synovial and cartilage tissues. qRT-PCR demonstrated that miR-1972, RP5-894D12.5, and FAM95B1 were differentially expressed in OA tissues. Targeted interactions between miR-1972 and JUN, and a ceRNA regulatory mechanism between RP5-894D12.5, miR-1972, and JUN were confirmed by dual-luciferase assays.

Conclusion

This study identified JUN, ATF3, and CDKN1A as possible diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for joint synovitis and OA. Furthermore, our finding indicated that RP5-894D12.5/miR-1972/JUN was a potential ceRNA regulatory axis in OA, providing an insight into the connection between ferroptosis and OA.

Bisphenol A induces placental ferroptosis and fetal growth restriction via the YAP/TAZ-ferritinophagy axis

Exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) during gestation leads to fetal growth restriction (FGR), whereby the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Here, we found that FGR patients showed higher levels of BPA in the urine, serum, and placenta; meanwhile, trophoblast ferroptosis was observed in FGR placentas, as indicated by accumulated intracellular iron, impaired antioxidant molecules, and increased lipid peroxidation products. To investigate the role of ferroptosis in placental and fetal growth, BPA stimulation was performed both in vivo and in vitro. BPA exposure during gestation was associated with FGR in mice; also, it induces ferroptosis in mouse placentas and human placental trophoblast. Pretreatment with ferroptosis inhibitor ferritin-1 (Fer-1) alleviated BPA-induced oxidative damage and cell death. Notably, BPA reduced the trophoblastic expression of Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), which regulated tissue growth and organ size. YAP or TAZ siRNA enhanced BPA-induced ferroptosis, suggesting that trophoblast ferroptosis is dependent on YAP/TAZ downregulation after BPA stimulation. Consistently, the protein levels of YAP/TAZ were also reduced in FGR placentas. Further results revealed that silencing YAP/TAZ promoted BPA-induced ferroptosis through autophagy. Pretreatment with autophagy inhibitor chloroquine (CQ) attenuated BPA-induced trophoblast ferroptosis. Ferritinophagy, an autophagic degradation of ferritin (FTH1), was observed in FGR placentas. Similarly, BPA reduced the protein level of FTH1 in placental trophoblast. Pretreatment with iron chelator desferrioxamine (DFO) and NCOA4 (an autophagy cargo receptor) siRNA weakened the ferroptosis of trophoblast after exposure to BPA, indicating that autophagy mediates ferroptosis in BPA-stimulated trophoblast by degrading ferritin. In summary, ferroptosis was featured in BPA-associated FGR and trophoblast injury; the regulation of ferroptosis involved the YAP/TAZ-autophagy-ferritin axis.

Understanding the mechanistic roles of microplastics combined with heavy metals in regulating ferroptosis: Adding new paradigms regarding the links with diseases

As a new type of pollutant, microplastics (MPs) commonly exist in today's ecosystems, causing damage to the ecological environment and the health of biological organisms, including human beings. MPs can function as carriers of heavy metals (HMs) to aggravate the enrichment of HMs in important organs of organisms, posing a great threat to health. Ferroptosis, a novel process for the regulation of nonapoptotic cell death, has been shown to be closely related to the occurrence and processes of MPs and HMs in diseases. In recent years, some HMs, such as cadmium (Cd), iron (Fe), arsenic (As) and copper (Cu), have been proven to induce ferroptosis. MPs can function as carriers of HMs to aggravate damage to the body. This damage involves oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, lipid peroxidation (LPO), inflammation, endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and so on. Therefore, ferroptosis has great potential as a therapeutic target for diseases induced by MPs combined with HMs. This paper systematically reviews the potential effects and regulatory mechanisms of MPs and HMs in the process of ferroptosis, focusing on the mitochondrial damage, Fe accumulation, LPO, ERS and inflammation caused by MPs and HMs that affect the regulatory mechanism of ferroptosis, providing new insights for research on regulating drugs and for the development of ferroptosis-targeting therapy for Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Ferroptosis: Mechanisms and role in diabetes mellitus and its complications

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and its complications are major diseases that affect human health and pose a serious threat to global public health. Although the prevention and treatment of DM and its complications are constantly being revised, optimal treatment strategies remain unavailable. Further exploration of new anti-diabetic strategies is an arduous task. Revealing the pathological changes and molecular mechanisms of DM and its complications is the cornerstone for exploring new therapeutic strategies. Ferroptosis is a type of newly discovered iron-dependent regulated cell death. Notably, the role of ferroptosis in the occurrence, development, and pathogenesis of DM and its complications has gradually been revealed. Numerous studies have shown that ferroptosis plays an important role in the pathophysiology and pathogenesis of DM and its associated complications. The aim of this review is to discuss the known underlying mechanisms of ferroptosis, the relationship between ferroptosis and DM, and the relationship between ferroptosis as a mode of cell death and diabetic kidney disease, diabetic retinopathy, diabetic cardiomyopathy, diabetic osteoporosis, diabetes-associated cognitive dysfunction, DM-induced erectile dysfunction, and diabetic atherosclerosis.

Interplay of Ferroptosis and Cuproptosis in Cancer: Dissecting Metal-Driven Mechanisms for Therapeutic Potentials

Iron (Fe) and copper (Cu), essential transition metals, play pivotal roles in various cellular processes critical to cancer biology, including cell proliferation, mitochondrial respiration, distant metastases, and oxidative stress. The emergence of ferroptosis and cuproptosis as distinct forms of non-apoptotic cell death has heightened their significance, particularly in connection with these metal ions. While initially studied separately, recent evidence underscores the interdependence of ferroptosis and cuproptosis. Studies reveal a link between mitochondrial copper accumulation and ferroptosis induction. This interconnected relationship presents a promising strategy, especially for addressing refractory cancers marked by drug tolerance. Harnessing the toxicity of iron and copper in clinical settings becomes crucial. Simultaneous targeting of ferroptosis and cuproptosis, exemplified by the combination of sorafenib and elesclomol-Cu, represents an intriguing approach. Strategies targeting mitochondria further enhance the precision of these approaches, providing hope for improving treatment outcomes of drug-resistant cancers. Moreover, the combination of iron chelators and copper-lowering agents with established therapeutic modalities exhibits a synergy that holds promise for the augmentation of anti-tumor efficacy in various malignancies. This review elaborates on the complex interplay between ferroptosis and cuproptosis, including their underlying mechanisms, and explores their potential as druggable targets in both cancer research and clinical settings.

Salvianolic acid A attenuates arsenic-induced ferroptosis and kidney injury via HIF-2α/DUOX1/GPX4 and iron homeostasis

Arsenic (As) is a prevalent pollutant in the environment and causes a high frequency of kidney disease in areas of high arsenic contamination, but its pathogenic mechanisms have yet to be completely clarified. Ferroptosis is a new form of cell death mainly dependent on lipid peroxidation and iron accumulation. Several reports have suggested that ferroptosis is operative in a spectrum of diseases caused by arsenic exposure, including in the lungs, pancreas, and testis. However, the mechanism and exact role of ferroptosis in arsenic-induced kidney injury is not known. Firstly, by constructing in vivo and in vitro arsenic exposure models, we confirmed the occurrence of ferroptosis based on the identification of the ability of NaASO2 to cause kidney injury. In addition, we found that arsenic exposure could upregulate DUOX1 expression in kidney and HK-2 cells, and after knocking down DUOX1 using siRNA was able to significantly upregulate GPX4 expression and attenuate ferroptosis. Subsequently using bioinformatics, we identified and proved the involvement of HIF-2α in the course of ferroptosis, and further confirmed by dual luciferase assay that HIF-2α promotes DUOX1 transcription to increase its expression. Finally, intervention with the natural ingredient SAA significantly attenuated arsenic-induced ferroptosis and kidney injury. These results showed that arsenic could cause ferroptosis and kidney injury by affecting HIF-2α/DUOX1/GPX4 and iron homeostasis and that SAA was an effective intervention component. This study not only discovered the molecular mechanism of sodium arsenite-induced kidney injury but also explored an active ingredient with intervention potential, providing a scientific basis for the prevention and treatment of sodium arsenite-induced kidney injury.

Heavy metals, oxidative stress, and the role of AhR signaling

The Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcriptional factor pivotal in responding to environmental stress and maintaining cellular homeostasis. Exposure to specific xenobiotics or industrial compounds in the environment activates AhR and its subsequent signaling, inducing oxidative stress and related toxicity. Past research has also identified and characterized several classes of endogenous ligands, particularly some tryptophan (Trp) metabolic/catabolic products, that act as AhR agonists, influencing a variety of physiological and pathological states, including the modulation of immune responses and cell death. Heavy metals, being non-essential elements in the human body, are generally perceived as toxic and hazardous, originating either naturally or from industrial activities. Emerging evidence indicates that heavy metals significantly influence AhR activation and its downstream signaling. This review consolidates current knowledge on the modulation of the AhR signaling pathway by heavy metals, explores the consequences of co-exposure to AhR ligands and heavy metals, and investigates the interplay between oxidative stress and AhR activation, focusing on the regulation of immune responses and ferroptosis.

Magnetic graphene oxide nanocomposites induce cytotoxicity in ADSCs via GPX4 regulating ferroptosis

Magnetic graphene oxide nanocomposites (MGO NPs) have been widely studied in biomedical applications. However, their cytotoxicity and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, the biosafety of MGO NPs was investigated, and the mechanism involved in ferroptosis was further explored. MGO can produce cytotoxicity in ADSCs, which is dependent on their concentration. Ferroptosis was involved in MGO NP-induced ADSC survival inhibition by increasing total ROS and lipid ROS accumulation as well as regulating the expression levels of ferroptosis-related genes and proteins. GPX4 played a critical role in the MGO NP-induced ADSC ferroptosis process, and overexpressing GPX4 suppressed ferroptosis to increase cell survival. This study provides a theoretical basis for the biosafety management of MGO NPs used in the field of biomedical treatment.

FUNDC1 interacts with GPx4 to govern hepatic ferroptosis and fibrotic injury through a mitophagy-dependent manner

INTRODUCTION

Liver fibrosis is a life-threatening pathological anomaly which usually evolves into advanced liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma although limited therapeutic option is readily available. FUN14 domain containing 1 (FUNDC1) is a mitophagy receptor with little information in liver fibrosis.

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to examine the role for FUNDC1 in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver injury.

METHODS

GEO database analysis and subsequent validation of biological processes including western blot, immunofluorescence, and co-immunoprecipitation were applied to clarify the regulatory role of FUNDC1 on mitophagy and ferroptosis.

RESULTS

Our data revealed elevated FUNDC1 levels in liver tissues of patients with liver fibrotic injury and CCl4-challenged mice. FUNDC1 deletion protected against CCl4-induced hepatic anomalies in mice. Moreover, FUNDC1 deletion ameliorated CCl4-induced ferroptosis in vivo and in vitro. Mechanically, FUNDC1 interacted with glutathione peroxidase (GPx4), a selenoenzyme to neutralize lipid hydroperoxides and ferroptosis, via its 96-133 amino acid domain to facilitate GPx4 recruitment into mitochondria from cytoplasm. GPx4 entered mitochondria through mitochondrial protein import system-the translocase of outer membrane/translocase of inner membrane (TOM/TIM) complex, prior to degradation of GPx4 mainly through mitophagy along with ROS-induced damaged mitochondria, resulting in hepatocyte ferroptosis.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, our data favored that FUNDC1 promoted hepatocyte injury through GPx4 binding to facilitate its mitochondrial translocation through TOM/TIM complex, where GPx4 was degraded by mitophagy to trigger ferroptosis. Targeting FUNDC1 may be a promising therapeutic approach for liver fibrosis.

Mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of acute pancreatitis

The mechanism of cell damage during acute pancreatitis (AP) has not been fully elucidated, and there is still a lack of specific or effective treatments. Increasing evidence has implicated mitochondrial dysfunction as a key event in the pathophysiology of AP. Mitochondrial dysfunction is closely related to calcium (Ca2+) overload, intracellular adenosine triphosphate depletion, mitochondrial permeability transition pore openings, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, mitophagy damage and inflammatory responses. Mitochondrial dysfunction is an early triggering event in the initiation and development of AP, and this organelle damage may precede the release of inflammatory cytokines, intracellular trypsin activation and vacuole formation of pancreatic acinar cells. This review provides further insight into the role of mitochondria in both physiological and pathophysiological aspects of AP, aiming to improve our understanding of the underlying mechanism which may lead to the development of therapeutic and preventive strategies for AP.

Ferritinophagy Mediated by Oxidative Stress-Driven Mitochondrial Damage Is Involved in the Polystyrene Nanoparticles-Induced Ferroptosis of Lung Injury

Nanoplastics are a common type of contaminant in the air. However, no investigations have focused on the toxic mechanism of lung injury induced by nanoplastic exposure. In the present study, polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) caused ferroptosis in lung epithelial cells, which could be alleviated by ferrostatin-1, deferoxamine, and N-acetylcysteine. Further investigation found that PS-NPs disturbed mitochondrial structure and function and triggered autophagy. Mechanistically, oxidative stress-derived mitochondrial damage contributed to ferroptosis, and autophagy-dependent ferritinophagy was a pivotal intermediate link, resulting in ferritin degradation and iron ion release. Furthermore, inhibition of ferroptosis using ferrostatin-1 alleviated pulmonary and systemic toxicity to reverse the mouse lung injury induced by PS-NPs inhalation. Most importantly, the lung-on-a-chip was further used to clarify the role of ferroptosis in the PS-NPs-induced lung injury by visualizing the ferroptosis, oxidative stress, and alveolar-capillary barrier dysfunction at the organ level. In summary, our study indicated that ferroptosis was an important mechanism for nanoplastics-induced lung injury through different lung cells, mouse inhalation models, and three-dimensional-based lung-on-a-chip, providing an insightful reference for pulmonary toxicity assessment of nanoplastics.

m6A methylation-mediated PGC-1α contributes to ferroptosis via regulating GSTK1 in arsenic-induced hepatic insulin resistance

Arsenic exposure has been closely linked to hepatic insulin resistance (IR) and ferroptosis with the mechanism elusive. Peroxisome proliferator γ-activated receptor coactivator 1-α (PGC-1α) is essential for glucose metabolism as well as for the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, it was unclear whether there is a regulatory connection between PGC-1α and ferroptosis. Besides, the definitive mechanism of arsenic-induced hepatic IR progression remains to be determined. Here, we found that hepatic insulin sensitivity impaired by sodium arsenite (NaAsO2) could be reversed by inhibiting ferroptosis. Mechanistically, we found that PGC-1α suppression inhibited the protein expression of glutathione s-transferase kappa 1 (GSTK1) via nuclear respiratory factor 1 (NRF1), thereby increasing ROS accumulation and promoting ferroptosis. Furthermore, we showed that NaAsO2 induced hepatic IR and ferroptosis via methyltransferase-like 14 (METTL14) and YTH domain-containing family protein 2 (YTHDF2)-mediated N6-methyladenosine (m6A) of PGC-1α mRNA. In conclusion, NaAsO2-mediated PGC-1α suppression was m6A methylation-dependent and induced ferroptosis via the PGC-1α/NRF1/GSTK1 pathway in hepatic IR. The data might provide insight into potential targets for diabetes prevention and treatment.

Arsenic-Induced Ferroptosis in Chicken Hepatocytes via the Mitochondrial ROS Pathway

Arsenic has been shown to be highly toxic and can cause liver damage. Previous studies have shown that arsenic causes severe liver damage and induces accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This study aimed to investigate the effects of ferroptosis on the liver in arsenic trioxide (ATO) and to explore the underlying mechanisms. We confirmed the hepatotoxic effects of arsenic by in vivo and in vitro experiments. After 28 days of administration of arsenic trioxide (4-mg/kg, 8-mg/kg) by gavage, chickens exhibited body weight loss and liver damage in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, in vivo and in vitro western blot and real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR analyses simultaneously indicated that ferroptosis might be the main pathway of arsenic-induced liver injury. Finally, Mito-TEMPO effectively eliminated the ROS accumulation in mitochondria, significantly attenuating the process of cellular ferroptosis. In summary, the hepatotoxic effects of arsenic are related to ferroptosis, and the hepatic ferroptosis process of arsenic is regulated by mitochondrial ROS (MtROS). Our study reveals new mechanisms of arsenic toxicity to the liver, which may deepen our understanding of arsenic toxicology.

Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis with natural products: Regulatory mechanism based on cell ferroptosis

CONTEXT

With the development of society, the number of patients with osteoporosis is increasing. The prevention and control of osteoporosis has become a serious and urgent issue. With the continuous progress of biomedical research, ferroptosis has attracted increased attention. However, the pathophysiology and mechanisms of ferroptosis and osteoporosis still need further study. Natural products are widely used in East Asian countries for osteoporosis prevention and treatment.

OBJECTIVE

In this paper, we will discuss the basic mechanisms of ferroptosis, the relationship between ferroptosis and osteoclasts and osteoblasts, and in vitro and in vivo studies of natural products to prevent osteoporosis by interfering with ferroptosis.

METHODS

This article takes ferroptosis, natural products, osteoporosis, osteoblasts and osteoclast as key words. Retrieve literature from 2012 to 2023 indexed in databases such as PubMed Central, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and ISI.

RESULTS

Ferroptosis has many regulatory mechanisms, including the system XC -/GSH/GPX4, p62/Keap1/Nrf2, FSP1/NAD (P) H/CoQ10, P53/SAT1/ALOX15 axes etc. Interestingly, we found that natural products, such as Artemisinin, Biochanin A and Quercetin, can play a role in treating osteoporosis by promoting ferroptosis of osteoclast and inhibiting ferroptosis of osteoblasts.

CONCLUSIONS

Natural products have great potential to regulate OBs and OCs by mediating ferroptosis to prevent and treat osteoporosis, and it is worthwhile to explore and discover more natural products that can prevent and treat osteoporosis.