Emerging Links Between Ferroptosis and Neurodegeneration: Implications for Disease Mechanisms and Nutraceutical Interventions

A relatively recently identified type of controlled cell death termed ‘ferroptosis’ is driven by iron and characterized by reactive oxygen species (ROS) buildup and lipid peroxidation. This review explores the complex mechanisms underpinning ferroptosis and its potential effects on the onset and development of neurodegenerative diseases. The impact of lipid peroxides, glutathione/glutathione peroxidase 4 (GSH/GPX4), and iron metabolism-targeting small molecule inhibitors and the involvement of nucleic acids, proteins, and phytochemicals as inhibitors of ferroptosis will be discussed. Additionally, we explore the potential of ferroptosis as a therapeutic target for managing neurodegenerative disorders and address the challenges faced in clinical translation. The emerging research on novel drug delivery approaches and nanomaterial-based strategies for efficient ferroptosis inhibition is also described. In conclusion, this review provides a detailed overview of the complex landscape of ferroptosis, providing insights into its molecular mechanisms, inhibitors, and potential therapeutic applications. Understanding the multifaceted role of ferroptosis in disease pathogenesis will pave the way for developing innovative interventions to harness its therapeutic potential in various neurological conditions.