Nano-drug-based Targeted Therapy Alleviates Ferroptosis-induced Liver Toxicity

Abstract

: Iron is an essential inorganic element for an organism, with several metabolic activities. The glycoproteins ferritin and transferrin, which assist in carrying iron to various body parts, are used to store iron. In terms of iron uptake, storage, and excretion, equilibrium should be preserved. Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent form of cell death with traits like lipid peroxidation buildup and ROS generation. It is distinct from other forms of cell death visually and biochemically. Many cancer cells block ferroptosis by controlling different cell survival pathways. Compared to healthy, normal cells, cancer cells are more dependent on iron. A subgroup of tumor cells known as cancer stem cells has stem-like characteristics. These are in charge of metastasis and recurrence. The liver plays a significant part in the body's detoxifying process and is the primary iron storage organ. Numerous liver disorders are frequently accompanied by excessive iron accumulation. Due to excessive iron deposits, the liver is more vulnerable to oxidative damage, which can occasionally result in liver failure. Chemotherapy, which involves administering several medications to treat cancer, may be hazardous to the body's other cells. The ferroptosis condition and high iron accumulation can potentially impair liver function. A tailored drug delivery method may ameliorate the impact of excessive iron accumulation and favorably correlate with liver damage, consequently enhancing liver function.