The underlying pathological mechanism of ferroptosis in the development of cardiovascular disease

Noncoding RNAs regulating ferroptosis in cardiovascular diseases: novel roles and therapeutic strategies

The morbidity and mortality rates of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are increasing; thus, they impose substantial health and economic burdens worldwide, and effective interventions are needed for immediate resolution of this issue. Recent studies have suggested that noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) play critical roles in the occurrence and development of CVDs and are potential therapeutic targets and novel biomarkers for these diseases. Newly discovered modes of cell death, including necroptosis, pyroptosis, apoptosis, autophagy-dependent cell death and ferroptosis, also play key roles in CVD progression. However, ferroptosis, which differs from the other aforementioned forms of regulated cell death in terms of cell morphology, biochemistry and inhereditability, is a unique iron-dependent mode of nonapoptotic cell death induced by abnormal iron metabolism and excessive accumulation of iron-dependent lipid peroxides and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Increasing evidence has confirmed that ncRNA-mediated ferroptosis is involved in regulating tissue homeostasis and CVD-related pathophysiological conditions, such as cardiac ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, myocardial infarction (MI), atrial fibrillation (AF), cardiomyopathy and heart failure (HF). In this review, we summarize the underlying mechanism of ferroptosis, discuss the pathophysiological effects of ncRNA-mediated ferroptosis in CVDs and provide ideas for effective therapeutic strategies.

Ovaries of estrogen receptor 1-deficient mice show iron overload and signs of aging

Introduction

Estrogens are crucial regulators of ovarian function, mediating their signaling through binding to estrogen receptors. The disruption of the estrogen receptor 1 (Esr1) provokes infertility associated with a hemorrhagic, cystic phenotype similar to that seen in diseased or aged ovaries. Our previous study indicated the possibility of altered iron metabolism in Esr1-deficient ovaries showing massive expression of lipocalin 2, a regulator of iron homeostasis.

Methods

Therefore, we examined the consequences of depleting Esr1 in mouse ovaries, focusing on iron metabolism. For that reason, we compared ovaries of adult Esr1-deficient animals and age-matched wild type littermates.

Results and discussion

We found increased iron accumulation in Esr1-deficient animals by using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Western blot analysis and RT-qPCR confirmed that iron overload alters iron transport, storage and regulation. In addition, trivalent iron deposits in form of hemosiderin were detected in Esr1-deficient ovarian stroma. The depletion of Esr1 was further associated with an aberrant immune cell landscape characterized by the appearance of macrophage-derived multinucleated giant cells (MNGCs) and increased quantities of macrophages, particularly M2-like macrophages. Similar to reproductively aged animals, MNGCs in Esr1-deficient ovaries were characterized by iron accumulation and strong autofluorescence. Finally, deletion of Esr1 led to a significant increase in ovarian mast cells, involved in iron-mediated foam cell formation. Given that these findings are characteristics of ovarian aging, our data suggest that Esr1 deficiency triggers mechanisms similar to those associated with aging.

Ferroptosis and its emerging role in kidney stone formation

Kidney stone is a common and highly recurrent disease in urology, and its pathogenesis is associated with various factors. However, its precise pathogenesis is still unknown. Ferroptosis describes a form of regulated cell death that is driven by unrestricted lipid peroxidation, which does not require the activation of caspase and can be suppressed by iron chelators, lipophilic antioxidants, inhibitors of lipid peroxidation, and depletion of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Recent studies have shown that ferroptosis plays a crucial role in kidney stone formation. An increasing number of studies have shown that calcium oxalate, urate, phosphate, and selenium deficiency induce ferroptosis and promote kidney stone formation through mechanisms such as oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and autophagy. We also offered a new direction for the downstream mechanism of ferroptosis in kidney stone formation based on the "death wave" phenomenon. We reviewed the emerging role of ferroptosis in kidney stone formation and provided new ideas for the future treatment and prevention of kidney stones.

Mechanisms and applications of ferroptosis-associated regulators in cancer therapy and drug resistance

Iron is an essential element for almost all living things. Both iron excess and iron deficiency can damage the body's health, but the body has developed complex mechanisms to regulate iron balance. The imbalance of iron homeostasis and lipid peroxidation are important features of ferroptosis. In this review, we summarize the latest regulatory mechanisms of ferroptosis, the roles of relevant regulators that target ferroptosis for cancer therapy, and their relationship to drug resistance. In conclusion, targeting ferroptosis is an important strategy for cancer therapy.

The mechanism of ferroptosis and its related diseases

Ferroptosis, a regulated form of cellular death characterized by the iron-mediated accumulation of lipid peroxides, provides a novel avenue for delving into the intersection of cellular metabolism, oxidative stress, and disease pathology. We have witnessed a mounting fascination with ferroptosis, attributed to its pivotal roles across diverse physiological and pathological conditions including developmental processes, metabolic dynamics, oncogenic pathways, neurodegenerative cascades, and traumatic tissue injuries. By unraveling the intricate underpinnings of the molecular machinery, pivotal contributors, intricate signaling conduits, and regulatory networks governing ferroptosis, researchers aim to bridge the gap between the intricacies of this unique mode of cellular death and its multifaceted implications for health and disease. In light of the rapidly advancing landscape of ferroptosis research, we present a comprehensive review aiming at the extensive implications of ferroptosis in the origins and progress of human diseases. This review concludes with a careful analysis of potential treatment approaches carefully designed to either inhibit or promote ferroptosis. Additionally, we have succinctly summarized the potential therapeutic targets and compounds that hold promise in targeting ferroptosis within various diseases. This pivotal facet underscores the burgeoning possibilities for manipulating ferroptosis as a therapeutic strategy. In summary, this review enriched the insights of both investigators and practitioners, while fostering an elevated comprehension of ferroptosis and its latent translational utilities. By revealing the basic processes and investigating treatment possibilities, this review provides a crucial resource for scientists and medical practitioners, aiding in a deep understanding of ferroptosis and its effects in various disease situations.