Description: Ferroptosis is a form of regulated cell death that depends on iron and is characterized by the accumulation of lipid peroxides. This process is distinct from other forms of cell death, such as apoptosis or necrosis, as it involves a specific biochemical mechanism activated under oxidative stress conditions. During ferroptosis, iron homeostasis is disrupted, leading to increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation. This type of cell death has been the subject of study in various areas of cell biology and medicine, as understanding it may provide new insights into the treatment of diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and ischemic conditions. Ferroptosis has been identified as a process that can be induced by certain drugs and environmental conditions, making it an area of interest for biomedical research and the development of innovative therapies. Its relevance lies in the fact that, being a regulated mechanism, it may be potentially manipulable for therapeutic purposes, opening new avenues for the treatment of diseases where uncontrolled cell death plays a crucial role.
History: The term ‘ferroptosis’ was first introduced in 2012 by a research group led by Brent Stockwell at Columbia University. In their study, they identified this new type of cell death and differentiated it from other known mechanisms. Since then, research on ferroptosis has grown exponentially, revealing its implications in various pathologies and its potential as a therapeutic target.
Uses: Ferroptosis is being explored as a therapeutic approach in the treatment of various diseases, including cancer, where the aim is to induce cell death in tumor cells resistant to other treatments. Its role in neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, is also being investigated, where regulating cell death may be beneficial.
Examples: A practical example of inducing ferroptosis is seen in the use of drugs like erastin, which has been shown to cause cancer cell death by increasing iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation. Another case is the study of ferroptosis in neurodegeneration, where inhibiting this process has been observed to protect neurons from cell death.
