Radiotherapy-induced ferroptosis for cancer treatment

Ferroptosis is a regulated cell death mechanism controlled by iron, amino acid and reactive oxygen species metabolisms, which is very relevant for cancer therapy. Radiotherapy-induced ferroptosis is critical for tumor suppression and several preclinical studies have demonstrated that the combination of ionizing radiation with small molecules or nano-systems is effective in combating cancer growth and overcoming drug or ionizing radiation resistance. Here, we briefly overview the mechanisms of ferroptosis and the cross-talk existing between the cellular pathways activated by ferroptosis and those induced by radiotherapy. Lastly, we discuss the recently reported combinational studies involving radiotherapy, small molecules as well as nano-systems and report the recent findings achieved in this field for the treatment of tumors.

Automated summary

Ferroptosis is a regulated form of cell death that involves iron, amino acid, and reactive oxygen species metabolisms, and it plays a significant role in cancer therapy. Radiotherapy-induced ferroptosis is crucial for suppressing tumor growth, and combining ionizing radiation with small molecules or nano-systems has shown effectiveness in overcoming drug or radiation resistance. This article provides an overview of the mechanisms of ferroptosis, the interaction between pathways activated by ferroptosis and those induced by radiotherapy, and the recent advancements in combinational studies involving radiotherapy, small molecules, and nano-systems for tumor treatment.