Ferroptosis: Molecular perspective, cellular influence, cancer manifestation, and therapeutic potentials

The increasing incidence of apoptosis resistance have indicated that ferroptosis, a novel cell death pathway, is deeply associated with the proliferation and survival of cancer cells. This presents significant challenges to current cancer treatment paradigms. This review delves deeply into the complex metabolic regulatory networks that govern ferroptosis and its multifaceted roles across various cancer types. The intricate interplay between ferroptosis and other cell death pathways is explored, emphasizing its potential role in overcoming therapeutic resistance. The discussion highlights the latest advancements in therapeutic strategies aimed at inducing and regulating ferroptosis, including both monotherapeutic and nanotherapeutic approaches. Special attention is also given on integrated strategies that leverage application of iron-based as well as non-iron-based nanoparticles in combination with existing therapies. These innovative approaches offer valuable insights for the design of future target-specific, ferroptosis-dependent treatments that promise enhanced synergistic effects by simultaneously activating multiple cell death pathways, reversing immunotherapeutic resistance thereby achieving greater clinical relevance. This review will serve as a vital resource for researchers and clinicians to navigate the complexities of ferroptosis and harness its potential to develop more effective cancer therapies in future.