Iron Imbalance and Ferroptosis in Cardiovascular Disease: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targets

Iron Imbalance and Ferroptosis in Cardiovascular Disease: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targets

Maintaining proper iron balance is crucial for healthy heart function. A growing body of evidence points to iron imbalance as a common factor underlying various cardiovascular diseases. Over the past decade, ferroptosis, a form of regulated cell death driven by iron, has emerged as a key process contributing to the development and progression of these conditions.

This review explores the intricate relationship between iron metabolism, ferroptosis, and cardiovascular disease. We delve into the metabolic and molecular pathways involved in iron signaling and how they relate to ferroptosis in the context of heart disease.

Specifically, we discuss how iron imbalance and ferroptosis play a role in:

• Atherosclerosis* Drug-induced heart failure* Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury* Sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy* Arrhythmia* Diabetic cardiomyopathy

Understanding the mechanisms behind these processes is essential for developing effective treatment strategies. Therefore, we also examine the potential of targeting ferroptosis as a novel therapeutic approach for cardiovascular disease. This includes identifying potential drug targets and discussing the limitations and future directions of this research area.

By shedding light on the complex interplay between iron, ferroptosis, and cardiovascular health, this review aims to provide valuable insights for researchers and clinicians seeking to develop innovative treatments for these prevalent and often debilitating conditions.