Background: Ferroptosis, a newly recognized form of programmed cell death, is distinguished by its reliance on reactive oxygen species and iron-mediated lipid peroxidation, setting it apart from established types like apoptosis, cell necrosis, and autophagy. Recent studies suggest its role in exacerbating or mitigating diseases by influencing metabolic and signaling pathways in conditions such as tumors and ischemic organ damage. Evidence also links ferroptosis to various kidney diseases, prompting a review of its research status and potential breakthroughs in understanding and treating these conditions.
Summary: In AKI, ferroptosis has been confirmed in animal kidneys after being induced by various factors such as renal ischemia-reperfusion and cisplatin, and GPX4 is linked with AKI. Ferroptosis is associated with renal fibrosis in CKD, TGF-β1 being crucial in this regard. In DN, high SLC7A11 and low NCOA4 expressions are linked to disease progression. For PKD, ferroptosis promotes the disease by regulating ferroptosis in kidney tissue. RCC and LN also have links to ferroptosis, with mtDNA and iron accumulation causing RCC and oxidative stress causing LN.
Key Messages: Ferroptosis is a newly identified form of programmed cell death that is associated with various diseases. It targets metabolic and signaling pathways and has been linked to kidney diseases such as AKI, CKD, PKD, DN, LN, and ccRCC. Understanding its role in these diseases could lead to breakthroughs in their pathogenesis, etiology, and treatment.