Multimodal synergistic ferroptosis cancer therapy

Abstract

Ferroptosis, driven by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, has shown considerable promise in cancer therapy due to its distinct biochemical properties and potential for synergistic interaction with other treatments. This review comprehensively explores multimodal synergistic ferroptosis cancer therapy, elucidating mechanistic insights and therapeutic potential. The synergistic dual activation of ferroptosis enhances cancer cell death by overwhelming cellular antioxidant defenses and potentiating cytotoxic effects, offering tailored therapy. Combining ferroptosis with photodynamic therapy (PDT), photothermal therapy (PTT), sonodynamic therapy (SDT) and chemodynamic therapy (CDT) demonstrates synergistic effects in enhancing reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, disrupting cellular membranes, and inducing immunogenic cell death (ICD), improving treatment outcomes. Integrating ferroptosis therapy with immunotherapy harnesses the immune system to target cancer cells, priming the tumor microenvironment for immune recognition and activation, enhancing immunotherapy efficacy. Challenges and opportunities for multimodal synergistic ferroptosis cancer therapy consist of identifying optimal combinations, elucidating treatment resistance mechanisms, optimizing protocols, and developing targeted delivery systems. The integration of ferroptosis therapy with other modalities holds promise for revolutionizing cancer treatment and advancing precision medicine.