An emerging double‑edged sword role of ferroptosis in cardiovascular disease (Review).

The pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease (CVD) is complex and presents a serious threat to human health. Cardiomyocyte loss serves a pivotal role in both the onset and progression of CVD. Among various forms of programmed cell death, ferroptosis, along with apoptosis, autophagy and pyroptosis, is closely linked to the advancement of CVD. Ferroptosis, a mechanism of cell death, is driven by the buildup of oxidized lipids and excess iron. This pathway is modulated by lipid, amino acid and iron metabolism. Key characteristics of ferroptosis include disrupted iron homeostasis, increased peroxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids due to reactive oxygen species, decreased glutathione levels and inactivation of glutathione peroxidase 4. Treatments targeting ferroptosis could potentially prevent or alleviate CVD by inhibiting the ferroptosis pathway. Ferroptosis is integral to the pathogenesis of several types of CVD and inhibiting its occurrence in cardiomyocytes could be a promising therapeutic strategy for the future treatment of CVD. The present review provided an in‑depth analysis of advancements in understanding the mechanisms underlying ferroptosis. The present manuscript summarized the interplay between ferroptosis and CVDs, highlighting its dual roles in these conditions. Additionally, potential therapeutic targets within the ferroptosis pathway were discussed, alongside the current limitations and future directions of these novel treatment strategies. The present review may offer novel insights into preventive and therapeutic approaches for CVDs.