The Chains of Ferroptosis Interact in the Whole Progression of Atherosclerosis

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Science
• Cardiovascular Research
• Cellular Biology

Background:

• Atherosclerosis (AS) is a major cardiovascular disease (CVD) with complex pathogenesis and limited therapeutic options.
• Ferroptosis is a distinct programmed cell death pathway characterized by iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation.
• Ferroptosis plays a role in various cardiovascular conditions, including AS, stroke, and heart failure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the initiation and modulation of ferroptosis.
• To summarize the contribution of ferroptosis to the pathology of atherosclerosis.
• To explore ferroptosis as a potential therapeutic target for AS.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of ferroptosis mechanisms and its role in cardiovascular diseases.
• Systematic analysis of molecular pathways involved in ferroptosis.
• Synthesis of current understanding of ferroptosis in the context of atherosclerosis.

Main Results:

• Ferroptosis is characterized by iron overload, redox imbalance, and lipid hydroperoxide accumulation.
• Ferroptosis affects key cardiovascular cells like endothelial cells, VSMCs, and macrophages.
• Ferroptosis is implicated in the inflammatory processes underlying AS.

Conclusions:

• Ferroptosis is a significant contributor to atherosclerosis development and progression.
• Targeting ferroptosis pathways presents a promising therapeutic strategy for managing AS.
• Further research into ferroptosis mechanisms may unveil novel treatments for cardiovascular diseases.