Versatile Nanomaterials That Interfere with Ferroptosis in the Tumor Microenvironment

Ferroptosis is a type of iron-dependent programmed cell death characterized by a depletion of glutathione. Although generally less harmful to normal cells, in tumor cells, the high demand for iron ions provides conditions conducive to ferroptosis. In this review, we provide an overview of recent progress in research on the regulation of ferroptosis in tumor cells, summarizing and assessing the current state, trends, and applications of nanomaterials in the regulation of ferroptosis in tumor cells. Given the advantages of nanomaterials in terms of targeting, safety, improved drug efficacy, and reduced side effects, these materials are considered to have potential therapeutic value in modulating ferroptosis in tumor cells via different mechanisms. In this respect, we describe methods for modifying the regulation of iron ions and interfering with glutathione activity and lipid peroxidation. The development of nanomaterials that can be applied to induce or inhibit ferroptosis is anticipated to provide new therapeutic options for the treatment of a diverse range of diseases.