Ferroptosis: A Double-Edged Sword in Cisplatin-Based Cancer Therapy and Acute Kidney Injury

Ferroptosis, an emerging type of regulated cell death, continues to attract significant focus over recent years, especially within the areas of cancer therapy and acute kidney injury (AKI) research. In therapies that use platinum-based drugs, particularly cisplatin (Cisplatin), ferroptosis exhibits complex, dual role. In a certain context, ferroptosis enhances clinical effects in platinum-based chemotherapy through promoting tumor cell death, while in a different context, it induces excessive damage to kidney cells, potentially leading to onset as well as worsening of AKI. Consequently, gaining a more comprehensive grasp regarding ferroptosis in this context of platinum-based chemotherapy treatment proves essential, as it could improve the efficacy of cancer therapies while also reducing kidney damage. This knowledge forms the theoretical foundation for developing novel treatment strategies, which can enable precision therapies, reduce side effects, as well as eventually enhance well-being in individuals. This narrative review systematically outlines the role and mechanisms of ferroptosis in the anticancer effects of cisplatin and cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury, and discusses targeting ferroptosis as an important strategy for balancing cancer therapy and preventing kidney damage.