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Updated: Feb 20, 2026
Retinal Pathophysiological Evaluation in a Rat Model
Published on: May 6, 2022
Ferroptosis in diabetic retinopathy: from pathogenic mechanisms to translational prospects
Jieyu Jiang1,2, Zhimin Liu1, Xiangdong Chen1
1The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China.
Abstract:
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common microvascular complication of diabetes. Despite ongoing revisions in the prevention and treatment of DR, optimal treatment strategies have yet to be established. Revealing the pathological changes and molecular mechanisms of DR is the cornerstone for exploring new therapeutic strategies. Ferroptosis, a new type of programmed cell death proposed in recent years, is characterized mainly by reactive oxygen species and iron-mediated lipid peroxidation. As studies progress, growing evidence has highlighted the involvement of ferroptosis, a newly identified programmed cell death pathway, in the development and pathological mechanisms of DR. The purpose of this review is to discuss the known underlying mechanisms of ferroptosis and elucidate its role in the pathogenesis of DR. Additionally, it explores the abnormal manifestations of iron metabolism and related signaling pathways in DR. Finally, we also summarize the potential compounds that may act as ferroptosis inhibitors in DR in the future. By synthesizing these aspects, this review aims to provide insights for a deeper understanding of the relationship between ferroptosis and DR, as well as potential prevention and treatment strategies.
Insights
Ferroptosis, a cell death pathway involving iron, plays a key role in diabetic retinopathy (DR) development. Understanding this link may lead to new treatments for DR.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Cell Biology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a major microvascular complication of diabetes.
- Current DR treatment strategies require optimization.
- Understanding DR pathogenesis is crucial for developing new therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanisms of ferroptosis and its role in DR pathogenesis.
- To explore iron metabolism abnormalities and signaling pathways in DR.
- To identify potential ferroptosis inhibitors for DR treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of ferroptosis mechanisms.
- Analysis of studies linking ferroptosis to DR.
- Exploration of iron metabolism and signaling pathways in DR.
Main Results:
- Ferroptosis is increasingly recognized as a contributor to DR pathology.
- Abnormal iron metabolism and related pathways are implicated in DR.
- Several compounds show potential as ferroptosis inhibitors for DR.
Conclusions:
- Ferroptosis is a significant factor in diabetic retinopathy.
- Targeting ferroptosis pathways presents a promising therapeutic avenue for DR.
- Further research into iron metabolism and ferroptosis inhibitors is warranted for DR management.
