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Updated: Jan 7, 2026
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Author Spotlight: Tracing the Ferroptotic Signatures and Cell Death Dynamics in Medulloblastoma for Advanced Therapeutics
Published on: March 15, 2024
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Haem Oxygenase-1, Ferroptosis and Disorders-A Narrative Review
James Pham1, Michel Refesse1,2, Ashwa Saeed1
1Department of Nutritional Sciences, School of Life Course and Population Sciences, King's College London, Franklin-Wilkins-Building, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, UK.
Nutrients
|December 31, 2025
Summary
Ferroptosis, a cell death pathway involving iron and reactive oxygen species (ROS), is complexly regulated. The enzyme hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1) plays a dual role, influencing ferroptosis and offering protection, presenting therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Pathology
Background:
- Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent cell death characterized by lipid peroxidation.
- Key regulators include glutathione peroxidase 4 and ferroptosis suppressor protein 1 (FSP1).
- Ferroptosis is implicated in degenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, kidney injury, liver disorders, and cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the complex role of hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1) in ferroptosis.
- To explore HO-1's dual functions in promoting or protecting against ferroptosis.
- To identify HO-1 as a potential therapeutic target for associated diseases.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of HO-1's role in iron metabolism and ROS production.
- Investigation of HO-1's antioxidant effects via the Nrf2 pathway.
- Review of HO-1's impact on cell membrane integrity and lipid peroxidation.
Main Results:
- HO-1 modulates ferroptosis by regulating iron levels through heme catabolism.
- HO-1 exhibits protective antioxidant effects, particularly in renal injury, via the Nrf2/HO-1 axis.
- HO-1's dual role offers distinct outcomes depending on cellular context and iron availability.
Conclusions:
- HO-1 is a critical modulator and mediator in ferroptosis, with significant implications for disease.
- Targeting the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, potentially through dietary interventions, can influence ferroptosis.
- HO-1 represents a promising therapeutic target for managing ferroptosis-related conditions, including cancer and neurodegeneration.
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