Inorganic Nanomedicine-Mediated Ferroptosis: A Synergistic Approach to Combined Cancer Therapies and Immunotherapy

Ferroptosis, a form of regulated cell death characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, has generated substantial interest in cancer therapy. Various methods have been developed to induce ferroptosis in tumor cells, including approved drugs, experimental compounds, and nanomedicine formulations. Unlike apoptosis, ferroptosis presents unique molecular and cellular features, representing a promising approach for cancers resistant to conventional treatments. Recent research indicates a strong link between ferroptosis and the tumor immune microenvironment, suggesting the potential of ferroptosis to trigger robust antitumor immune responses. Multiple cellular metabolic pathways control ferroptosis, including iron, lipid, and redox metabolism. Thus, understanding the interaction between tumor metabolism and ferroptosis is crucial for developing effective anticancer therapies. This review provides an in-depth discussion on combining inorganic nanoparticles with cancer therapies such as phototherapy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy, and the role of ferroptosis in these combination treatments. Furthermore, this paper explores the future of tumor treatment using nanomedicine, focusing on how inorganic nanoparticles can enhance ferroptosis in tumor cells and boost antitumor immunity. The goal is to advance ferroptosis-based nanomedicine from the laboratory to clinical applications.