Iron is an essential trace element crucial for cell vitality, contributing significantly to various biological functions, including electron transfer, respiration, DNA synthesis, cellular growth and differentiation, as well as gene expression regulation. The regulation and preservation of iron homeostasis are intricate processes. Excessive iron ion accumulation can elevate reactive oxygen species (ROS) production via the Fenton reaction, resulting in significant organ damage (Dixon et al., 2012a; Rafati Rahimzadeh et al., 2023).

In iron metabolism, iron is found in the forms of Fe²⁺ and Fe³⁺. Ferric iron (Fe³⁺) attaches to circulating transferrin (TF) and is transported into cells via the transferrin receptor 1 (TFR-1), where it is localized in endosomes. Inside endosomes, Fe³⁺ is converted to Fe²⁺ by six-transmembrane epithelial antigen of prostate 3 (STEAP-3), which possesses iron reductase activity, and is subsequently released into the cytosolic labile iron pool (LIP) through divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT-1). Fe²⁺ is either stored in the labile iron pool or sequestered by ferritin, which is composed of ferritin light chain (FTL) and ferritin heavy chain-1 (FTH-1).FTH-1 exhibits ferroxidase activity, facilitating the conversion of Fe²⁺ to Fe³⁺ and subsequently storing it within ferritin molecules, which helps decrease the concentration of free iron. Iron export from cells to the extracellular space is facilitated by the membrane protein solute carrier family 40 member 1 (SLC40A1, or ferroportin 1, FPN1) and lipocalin-2 (LCN-2), which oxidizes Fe²⁺ to Fe³⁺. Moreover, studies have enhanced our understanding of how hepcidin regulates systemic iron balance. Hepcidin is an essential peptide hormone responsible for controlling iron levels in the body by regulating its absorption and release (Sangkhae and Nemeth, 2017; Qian et al., 2013). Furthermore, ferritinophagy has been recognized as a vital regulator of intracellular iron homeostasis and is significantly involved in ferroptosis. This process involves the degradation of ferritin via the autophagy pathway to release stored iron, thereby influencing iron availability and the occurrence of ferroptosis (Rochette et al., 2022; Arosio, 2022). In ferroptosis research, a new role for the ATM protein has been identified. Screening of protein kinases associated with ferroptosis highlights the critical function of ATM in maintaining iron balance (Chen et al., 2020). Cancer cells demonstrate elevated levels of intracellular iron, which not only enhances cell growth and proliferation but also triggers ferroptosis via the generation of ROS (Shen et al., 2021; Yang et al., 2020). The use of iron-based nanoparticles and magnetic fields in cancer therapy promotes ferroptosis by regulating cellular iron concentrations, opening new pathways for cancer treatment (Wang et al., 2018). Under high-iron conditions, iron treatment induces ferroptosis in Slc7a11^−/− cells, highlighting the critical role of iron in initiating ferroptosis mediated by SLC7A11. This indicates its promise as a viable treatment target for addressing tissue damage linked to hemochromatosis (Wang et al., 2017).

The maintenance of iron balance is also mediated by various iron-modulating proteins. Iron-responsive element-binding protein-2 (IREB-2) reduces intracellular iron levels and prevents ferroptosis by upregulating FTL and FTH-1 (Yao et al., 2021). Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) contributes to ferroptosis through the elevation of intracellular iron and the promotion of lipid peroxidation (Kwon et al., 2015). Nuclear receptor coactivator 4 (NCOA4) promotes the liberation of intracellular iron by enhancing ferritin degradation (Santana-Codina and Mancias, 2018). Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) impacts ferroptosis through the modulation of genes with antioxidant response elements (ARE) (Yan R. et al., 2023). When intracellular iron balance is compromised, surplus iron produces ROS via the Fenton reaction, resulting in lipid peroxidation and initiating ferroptosis. Thus, maintaining iron homeostasis is essential for ferroptosis.

The GSH-GPX4 signaling pathway is essential for maintaining intracellular redox balance and regulating ferroptosis. System Xc-operates as a membrane-bound amino acid transporter in mammalian cells, consisting of a heterodimer formed by SLC7A11 and SLC3A2, where SLC7A11 is the primary component.System Xc-facilitates the exchange of extracellular cystine (Cys) for intracellular glutamate (Glu) at a 1:1 ratio, supplying the necessary precursors for the synthesis of intracellular glutathione (GSH). The transport of cystine is a crucial step in the production of GSH.

GPX4 is a GSH-dependent antioxidant enzyme that transforms GSH into oxidized glutathione (GSSG), effectively neutralizing ROS produced during cellular respiration and metabolic processes, thus playing a crucial role in preventing lipid peroxidation. Both GSH and selenium (Se) are essential for preserving the functionality and activity of GPX4. When GPX4 activity is impaired, it typically leads to reduced levels of GSSG and a significant increase in ROS, ultimately triggering ferroptosis.

In the context of HT-1080 cells, silencing the SLC7A11 gene with siRNA significantly increased the cells’ vulnerability to ferroptosis triggered by erastin, whereas enhancing the expression of SLC7A11 improved their resistance to this type of cell death (Chang et al., 2018). Erastin, a representative inducer of ferroptosis, directly inhibits System Xc-, depleting intracellular cystine and reducing GSH biosynthesis. This results in a decrease in GPX4 activity, an increase in lipid peroxide accumulation, and ultimately leads to ferroptosis. RSL3, another trigger of ferroptosis, covalently alters selenocysteine, directly inhibiting GPX4 and resulting in a buildup of intracellular lipid peroxides, which ultimately causes cell death (Li F.-J. et al., 2022).

Research indicates that various small molecules, including FINO2, FIN56, ML162, ML210, and buthionine sulfoximine, inhibit GPX4 via distinct mechanisms, thereby promoting ferroptosis (Tang et al., 2021; Gaschler et al., 2018; Hu et al., 2021). For example, FINO2 triggers ferroptosis by directly oxidizing iron and suppressing GPX4 activity (Li F.-J. et al., 2022). Selenium plays a dual role by contributing to the synthesis of GPX4 through the formation of selenocysteine (Sec), the 21st amino acid, and by promoting GPX4 expression via the activation of transcription factors TFAP2c and Sp1 (Xing et al., 2022). The mevalonate (MVA) pathway contributes to GPX4 synthesis by facilitating the production of selenocysteine tRNA, primarily generating isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP) and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) as key products (Kato et al., 2022).

In conclusion, the GSH-GPX4 signaling pathway is essential for regulating ferroptosis, and altering this pathway can greatly impact cell survival and apoptosis.The core mechanisms of this pathway involve cystine uptake via System Xc-, GSH synthesis, and GPX4 activity maintenance. Disruption of these processes results in increased intracellular ROS and lipid peroxidation, ultimately inducing ferroptosis.

The FSP1-CoQ10 pathway plays a vital role in the modulation of ferroptosis. Ferroptosis suppressor protein 1 (FSP1), referred to as AIFM2, functions as a cytosolic oxidoreductase. FSP1 utilizes the reducing power of NADPH to convert coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) into its active form. NADPH acts as a vital reducing agent, supplying the necessary electrons for FSP1 to transform CoQ10 into a highly effective lipophilic antioxidant that captures free radicals. The active form of CoQ10 effectively intercepts and neutralizes lipid peroxidation products, safeguarding cell membranes from damage and preventing cell death, thus playing a key role in inhibiting ferroptosis. This mechanism is vital for sustaining the redox state within cells and defending them against oxidative stress.

Studies indicate that the FSP1-CoQ10 pathway can mitigate the impacts of ferroptosis inducers like erastin and RSL3 by decreasing ROS and lipid peroxide levels, thereby safeguarding cells from death.For instance, a recent investigation revealed that cells deficient in FSP1 exhibited markedly lower CoQ10 levels, coupled with significantly elevated lipid peroxides and ROS, underscoring the essential function of FSP1 in modulating CoQ10 and inhibiting ferroptosis (Lv et al., 2023b). Another investigation demonstrated that the overexpression of FSP1 notably elevates intracellular CoQ10 levels, decreases lipid peroxide formation, and thus enhances cell survival against ferroptosis (Gong et al., 2023). Additionally, FSP1 influences disease prognosis and treatment by regulating the redox cycling of CoQ10 and vitamin K (Li W. et al., 2023).

Recent research has underscored the critical role of the FSP1-CoQ10 pathway in the regulation of ferroptosis, indicating possible directions for future therapeutic strategies. Evidence indicates that inhibiting FSP1 is crucial for promoting ferroptosis in cancer cells and overcoming treatment resistance. Compounds such as FSEN1 have been identified as selective inhibitors of FSP1, increasing the vulnerability of cancer cells to ferroptosis (Hendricks et al., 2023).

In conclusion, there is an increasing body of research focused on the significance of the FSP1-CoQ10 pathway in ferroptosis. For example, experiments using small molecule compounds to regulate this axis to inhibit ferroptosis have yielded positive results (Wei et al., 2020). These specific research findings not only underscore the significance of the FSP1-CoQ10 axis in cellular protection but also offer fresh perspectives for designing novel antioxidants.

The GCH1-BH4 signaling pathway is essential for the regulation of ferroptosis.GTP cyclohydrolase 1 (GCH1) serves as the rate-limiting enzyme in the production of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), facilitating the transformation of GTP into BH4.As a key antioxidant, BH4 specifically prevents the autoxidation of phospholipids rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, thereby preventing lipid peroxidation. Additionally, BH4 enhances the synthesis of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), scavenges free radicals, and safeguards cellular membranes against oxidative injury.

Lipid peroxidation is integral to the ferroptosis process. BH4 inhibits ferroptosis by halting the production of lipid peroxides.For instance, research indicated that in a GCH1 knockdown mouse model, decreased levels of BH4 resulted in a marked rise in lipid peroxidation and the induction of ferroptosis (Kraft et al., 2019). Additionally, Investigations have indicated that a mouse model with GCH1 overexpression leads to significantly elevated BH4 levels, reduced lipid peroxide formation, and enhanced cellular resistance to ferroptosis (Hu et al., 2022).

Specifically, in one model, researchers discovered that downregulating GCH1 expression through gene knockout technology resulted in a notable reduction in BH4 levels in mice, accompanied by a marked increase in lipid peroxides and ferroptosis markers (Hu et al., 2022). On the other hand, upregulating GCH1 using gene overexpression technology significantly increased BH4 levels in cells and reduced oxidative stress and ferroptosis. This effect was particularly notable in certain neurodegenerative disease models (Wei et al., 2020).

These findings not only highlight the essential function of the GCH1-BH4 signaling cascade in regulating ferroptosis but also offer new potential targets for future therapeutic interventions. Understanding the mechanisms of this pathway can offer an important theoretical foundation for developing new anti-ferroptosis treatment strategies. For example, a recent study found that using a drug called tetrahydrobiopterin supplement significantly reduced ferroptosis and alleviated myocardial damage in a MIRI model by modulating the GCH1-BH4 pathway (Rochette et al., 2022). This discovery opens up new perspectives and potential avenues for clinical interventions.

The DHODH-CoQ signaling pathway is essential in modulating ferroptosis.Dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH), located in the inner mitochondrial membrane, is crucial for synthesizing pyrimidine nucleotides. It facilitates the transformation of dihydroorotate (DHO) into orotate (OA), which is a vital step in the synthesis of pyrimidine nucleotides. During this process, DHODH transfers electrons to coenzyme Q (CoQ), reducing it to ubiquinol (CoQH2), which has antioxidant properties. As a strong free radical-scavenging antioxidant, CoQH2 effectively captures and neutralizes lipid peroxides, protecting cell membranes from damage and cell death, thus playing a critical role in the inhibition of ferroptosis.

Studies indicate that the inhibition of DHODH results in a reduction of CoQH2 levels, which elevates ROS production and subsequently triggers ferroptosis. For instance, a study showed that inhibiting DHODH in cell lines substantially lowered CoQH2 levels, leading to a significant rise in lipid peroxides and ROS, which consequently heightened the incidence of ferroptosis (Xu W. et al., 2021).Conversely, upregulating DHODH or supplementing CoQ can increase CoQH2 levels, reduce ROS production, and thereby enhance cellular resistance to ferroptosis. For example, another study demonstrated that supplementing with CoQ10 could restore the decreased antioxidant capacity caused by DHODH inhibition and reduce ferroptosis (Lyu et al., 2022).

Additionally, recent studies have discovered several new small molecules that can modulate the DHODH-CoQ signaling pathway, thereby influencing ferroptosisFor instance, the use of DHODH inhibitors alongside cisplatin promotes ferroptosis in cervical cancer cells, showcasing synergistic therapeutic effects through the modulation of the mTOR signaling pathway (Jiang et al., 2023). Furthermore, research has revealed that the DHODH mutant A58T shows resistance to the inhibitors Brequinar and BAY2402234, yet retains the ability to bind both drugs and CoQ concurrently (Pokhriyal et al., 2024).

These findings highlight the essential function of the DHODH-CoQ signaling pathway in regulating ferroptosis and suggest potential targets for upcoming therapeutic approaches. Understanding the mechanisms of this pathway can offer an important theoretical foundation for developing new anti-ferroptosis treatment strategies. Recent research indicates that employing gene editing techniques to modulate DHODH expression allows for precise control over ferroptosis, opening new avenues for targeted therapies (Wang et al., 2023).

Oxidative stress is considered a central pathogenic mechanism in MIRI, linked to the increased generation of ROS during the reperfusion period. The over accumulation of ROS results in lipid peroxidation of membranes, compromising the barrier function of cell membranes. The antioxidant system preserves redox balance by regulating intracellular ROS levels and managing the interplay between normal cellular metabolism and disease-related pathways.Upregulating antioxidant enzyme expression can safeguard tissues against damage induced by oxidative stress following myocardial reperfusion, thereby offering cardioprotective effects. A key pathogenic mechanism contributing to MIRI is the swift increase in ROS that takes place upon restoration of blood flow and reoxygenation of myocardial tissues (Cai et al., 2023).

ROS are pivotal in the ferroptosis associated with MIRI. Ferroptosis is initiated by elevated intracellular iron concentrations and diminished levels of the antioxidant glutathione (GSH), resulting in increased ROS levels. This increase in ROS causes lipid peroxidation, culminating in cell death (Li et al., 2020). ROS are generated via non-enzymatic pathways when iron ions are present. For example, the Fenton reaction in the labile iron pool produces Fe³⁺ and hydroxyl radicals from free iron ions, Fe²⁺, and H₂O₂ (Li W. et al., 2021). Elevated ROS levels can be mitigated by the iron chelator deferoxamine, which decreases lipid peroxidation and reduces the incidence of ferroptosis (Ishimaru et al., 2024). Conversely, increased expression of iron transport proteins can enhance iron-induced ROS production, ultimately triggering ferroptosis (Qian et al., 2023). Research indicates that liproxstatin-1 markedly suppresses ferroptosis and mitigates MIRI by limiting lipid peroxidation-induced ROS buildup, maintaining mitochondrial integrity, elevating GPX4 protein levels, and decreasing overall ROS levels (Yang F. et al., 2023).

Research indicates that in individuals with coronary artery disease (CAD) undergoing CABG surgery, intravenous administration of deferoxamine 8 hours post-operation can markedly reduce the generation of ROS and safeguard the heart from injury caused by reperfusion. This approach is especially advantageous for patients with diminished left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (Paraskevaidis et al., 2005).Furthermore, during the initial perfusion phase of isolated rabbit hearts, administering a particular dose of deferoxamine, an iron chelator, significantly lowers free radical production caused by reperfusion, leading to cardioprotective outcomes (Williams et al., 1991).

Regulation of redox states is also crucial in MIRI. Nrf2 is crucial in mitigating oxidative stress by controlling the expression of antioxidant enzymes and preserving intracellular redox homeostasis. Activation of Nrf2 can alleviate myocardial damage caused by MIRI (Tian et al., 2022). Additionally, studies have indicated that Zhilong Huoxue Tongyu capsule reduces MIRI-induced ferroptosis by upregulating Nrf2 via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and triggering the activation of the HO-1/GPX4 pathway (Zhao et al., 2024).

These comprehensive studies have given us deeper insights into the crucial roles that ROS production and redox state regulation play in ferroptosis and MIRI.This information offers important scientific support for the development of future treatment approaches.

The mitochondria serve as the main source of ROS within cells. During MIRI, mitochondrial dysfunction leads to decreased efficiency in the electron transport system and increased electron leakage, culminating in an overproduction of RO. The overproduction of ROS triggers intracellular oxidative stress, which results in cellular damage and death (Chen et al., 2022). Mitochondrial dynamics, including processes like fusion and fission, are essential for modulating mitochondrial activity and sustaining cellular energy homeostasis. Abnormal alterations in mitochondrial morphology frequently accompany mitochondrial dysfunction, impacting metabolic performance and ROS generation, which can lead to ferroptosis (Li J. et al., 2023).

Mitophagy serves as an essential process for clearing defective mitochondria.Mitochondrial dysfunction frequently occurs alongside impaired mitophagy, resulting in the buildup of damaged mitochondria, elevated ROS levels, and the triggering of ferroptosis (Yamada et al., 2024). Moreover, mitochondria serve as the main hub for intracellular iron metabolism, playing a crucial role in maintaining cellular iron balance. Impaired mitochondrial iron regulation can result in iron overload and increased ROS production, ultimately initiating ferroptosis (Yang T. et al., 2023). Mitochondrial metabolic function directly influences the intracellular redox state. Disruption of mitochondrial metabolism can lead to redox imbalance, thereby increasing ROS production and inducing ferroptosis (Hu et al., 2024a). Finally, mitochondrial dysfunction not only affects mitochondrial metabolism itself but also regulates cell survival and death through interactions with other intracellular signaling pathways.For example, research has demonstrated a close relationship between mitochondrial dysfunction and ferroptosis in MIRI. Mitochondrial impairment can affect ferroptosis via multiple signaling mechanisms (Zhang et al., 2021).

Recent research has identified that compounds like N-acetylcysteine can safeguard the heart against ischemia-reperfusion injury by inhibiting ferroptosis. These small molecules can prevent ferroptosis by targeting mitochondrial dysfunction and decreasing ROS generation (Zhou et al., 2024). Additionally, Ginsenoside Rg3 significantly alleviates ferroptosis in MIRI by activating the keap1/Nrf2/GPX4 signal transduction pathway (Zhong et al., 2024).

PUFAs are crucial elements of cellular membranes and are particularly vulnerable to oxidative degradation. A defining characteristic of ferroptosis is the peroxidation of lipids. Mitochondrial dysfunction may result in lipid metabolism disorders, which heighten the oxidation of PUFAs and consequently trigger ferroptosis (Guo et al., 2024). PUFAs in cell membranes are susceptible to oxidation, leading to the formation of lipid peroxides. These peroxides may disrupt the structural integrity of cell membranes, resulting in cellular dysfunction. In the context of mitochondrial dysfunction, lipid metabolism is disrupted, exacerbating the oxidation of PUFAs and thereby inducing ferroptosis (Liao et al., 2023). Research has revealed that the NRF2 signaling pathway is essential for managing the cellular response to antioxidant stress.NRF2 can activate various antioxidant enzymes, thereby mitigating lipid peroxidation caused by ROS (Xu S. et al., 2021). Fucoxanthin, an algal extract, mitigates MIRI by triggering the NRF2 signaling cascade, which inhibits lipid peroxidation and prevents ferroptosis (Yan J. et al., 2023). Mitochondria are vital in maintaining intracellular iron balance. Imbalance in iron regulation intensifies lipid peroxidation and triggers ferroptosis (Li J.-y. et al., 2021).

Lipid metabolism interacts with multiple intracellular signaling pathways, influencing cell survival and death. The p53 signaling pathway influences ferroptosis through the modulation of genes involved in lipid metabolism (Li S. et al., 2022). Furthermore, the Nrf2 signaling pathway reduces lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis by modulating the levels of antioxidant enzymes (Yan J. et al., 2023). Moreover, inhibitors of ACSL4 and LPCAT3 can safeguard cells against ferroptosis by modulating lipid metabolism and decreasing the oxidation of PUFAs (Fan et al., 2021).

These investigations provide deeper insights into the pivotal roles of impaired mitochondrial function and lipid metabolism in ferroptosis and MIRI.

Autophagy is a self-degradation mechanism in cells that facilitates the removal of damaged organelles and proteins, thereby recycling valuable components. This process is crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis and addressing stress and damage within the cell. Autophagy consists of several critical stages: the formation of autophagosomes, their merging with lysosomes, and the later degradation and repurposing of cellular components (Das et al., 2012).

Autophagy is crucial in the process of ferroptosis. It can modulate intracellular iron distribution and oxidative stress levels, thus influencing the onset of ferroptosis. Specifically, autophagy degrades iron-containing proteins (such as ferritin and iron-containing enzymes), releasing free iron. When autophagy is excessively active, it results in elevated intracellular free iron levels. This iron contributes to the production of increased ROS, leading to lipid peroxidation. The ensuing damage to cell membranes ultimately causes cell death through ferroptosis (Chen H.-Y. et al., 2021). Therefore, autophagy significantly influences ferroptosis by modulating iron homeostasis and redox balance.

In MIRI, autophagy-dependent ferroptosis is viewed as a crucial process causing myocardial injury and impaired function.Research indicates that ELAVL1 enhances the autophagic process and affects ferroptosis by stabilizing autophagy-related gene mRNA and boosting their expressionIn the MIRI model, FOXC1 modulates the regulation of genes related to autophagy, thereby impacting the onset and development of the autophagic process. This regulation affects the intracellular distribution of iron and oxidative stress levels, which is crucial for reducing ferroptosis (Chen H.-Y. et al., 2021). Additionally, during the MIRI process, the degradation of ferritin releases iron, which facilitates iron-driven Fenton reactions, leading to oxidative stress and compromised cardiac function. By regulating the autophagic process, the degradation of ferritin can be influenced, thus influencing the initiation of ferroptosis (Yang and Lin, 2023). A different study suggests that Epicatechin mitigates ferroptosis through the enhancement of autophagy and the suppression of oxidative stress, thereby safeguarding the MIRI (Junhong et al., 2024). This underscores the essential role of autophagy in modulating ferroptosis during MIRI.

The regulation of ferroptosis is significantly influenced by the protein degradation system, which primarily encompasses the ubiquitin-proteolytic system (UPS) and the lysosomal pathway. The UPS maintains intracellular protein homeostasis by tagging and degrading damaged proteins. Research indicates that the UPS plays a vital role in modulating ferroptosis.For instance, YAP enhances the ubiquitination and subsequent degradation of ACSL4 facilitated by NEDD4L, thereby mitigating ferroptosis and offering protective effects in MIRI (Qiu et al., 2023). Likewise, USP22 prevents ferroptosis-mediated cell death in cardiomyocytes via the SIRT1-p53/SLC7A11 signaling pathway, offering additional defense against MIRI (Ma et al., 2020).

Additionally, the interaction between autophagy and the protein degradation system is also crucial in controlling ferroptosis. Research has demonstrated that EGCG shields the heart muscle from ischemia-reperfusion damage by increasing the levels of 14-3-3η protein, which subsequently inhibits autophagy and ferroptosis (Hu et al., 2024b).

Despite some progress, studies focusing on autophagy-related signaling and protein degradation pathways in MIRI remain scarce. The existing research does not fully elucidate their involvement in ferroptosis regulation. Further investigations are required to deepen our understanding of how these mechanisms contribute to MIRI pathology and to explore their therapeutic potential.

ERS is a cellular response triggered by various stressors, including disruptions in calcium balance, ROS, and protein misfolding, occurring within the endoplasmic reticulum. The endoplasmic reticulum is essential for the synthesis, folding, and modification of proteins. When its function is compromised, it activates the Unfolded Protein Response (UPR) to reestablish normal endoplasmic reticulum activity.Nonetheless, if the stress persists or is excessively severe, and UPR does not successfully reestablish homeostasis, the cell might initiate apoptosis or other forms of programmed cell death (Li et al., 2020).

ERS has a significant connection with ferroptosis. It can modulate ferroptosis by altering iron metabolism, affecting ROS generation, and regulating the autophagic pathway. Specifically, ERS impacts iron storage and release, thus changing intracellular iron levels. It also increases ROS production, which is crucial for ferroptosis (Jiang et al., 2024).

Studies have demonstrated that ERS triggers ferroptosis by enhancing ROS production and modulating iron metabolism. For example, in the MIRI model, the initiation of the ATF4-C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) pathway can trigger ERS and promote ferroptosis (Huang et al., 2023). Suppressing ferroptosis can mitigate MIRI induced by ERS.For instance, the application of iron chelators or ferroptosis inhibitors can markedly decrease the levels of markers linked to ERS and ferroptosis, thus mitigating myocardial injury (Chen Y. et al., 2021).

Recent studies have found that inflammation significantly contributes to MIRI induced by ferroptosis. The activation of various inflammatory signaling pathways, including NF-κB and JNK, leads to the production and release of inflammatory factors (Zhang and Kaufman, 2008). These inflammatory factors can additionally intensify ERS and ferroptosis, fostering a detrimental cycle.

ERS is capable of stimulating the NF-κB pathway, which leads to the generation and secretion of pro-inflammatory factors. The activation of NF-κB is strongly associated with the initiation of ferroptosis. A study found that the NF-κB pathway exacerbates myocardial injury in ferroptosis-induced inflammatory responses by increasing ROS and promoting ferritin degradation (Zhao et al., 2023).

Moreover, the JNK pathway is also pivotal in the inflammatory response triggered by ERS and ferroptosis (Ye et al., 2019). ERS regulates the inflammatory response through the JNK pathway, increasing cellular damage. JNK signaling is intimately linked to the secretion of inflammatory mediators during ferroptosis. A study demonstrated that activation of the JNK pathway in the MIRI model leads to myocardial cell death by upregulating ferroptosis-associated genes and the secretion of inflammatory mediators (Su et al., 2024).

These studies highlight the significant function of the inflammatory response in MIRI induced by ferroptosis and reveal the mechanisms by which endoplasmic reticulum stress acts as a key regulatory factor in this process.

lncRNAs and microRNAs are crucial in regulating gene expression, influencing a range of cellular activities, including ferroptosis (Gao et al., 2023; Xiong et al., 2019). Ferroptosis, a form of regulated cell death reliant on iron and characterized by lipid peroxidation, plays a crucial role in MIRI. This section will explore how lncRNAs and microRNAs regulate ferroptosis and impact the pathophysiology of MIRI.

lncRNAs, which are RNA sequences longer than 200 nucleotides, are involved in modulating gene expression post-transcriptionally. These molecules are crucial for numerous biological processes, including cell differentiation, growth, and apoptosis. Recent studies have underscored the important function of lncRNAs in influencing ferroptosis, a type of regulated cell death, especially in the context of MIRI.

Several lncRNAs have been implicated in ferroptosis regulation during MIRI, acting through diverse molecular pathways. For instance, specific lncRNAs modulate key axes, such as miR-205/ACSL4,miR-450-5p/ACSL4 and miR-706/Ptgs2, influencing the balance between ferroptosis and cardiomyocyte survival (Sun W. et al., 2022; Gao et al., 2022; Yu et al., 2024). Furthermore, some lncRNAs are involved in reducing ferroptosis by interacting with axes like Pum2/PRDX6 or inhibiting key ferroptosis-related genes such as CCND2 (Zhang J.-K. et al., 2022; Dai et al., 2023). Silencing or modulating these lncRNAs offers a promising avenue for mitigating cardiac damage caused by ferroptosis. In summary, lncRNAs are crucial in regulating ferroptosis in MIRI, offering novel therapeutic possibilities for preventing and addressing ischemic heart injury.

MicroRNAs are short non-coding RNAs that modulate gene expression after transcription by interacting with specific mRNAs. In the MIRI, several miRNAs have been implicated in the regulation of ferroptosis. These miRNAs modulate key ferroptosis-related genes, influencing the vulnerability of cardiomyocytes to oxidative stress during MIRI.

For instance, miR-135b-3p has been identified as a direct regulator of GPX4, influencing iron buildup and lipid peroxidation, which are essential processes in ferroptosis. Its altered expression during ischemia-reperfusion worsens cardiac damage by influencing GPX4, as demonstrated in various experimental models of MIRI (Sun et al., 2021b).

Similarly, miR-196c-3p regulates ferroptosis by targeting key genes like NOX4, P53, and LOX, which control oxidative stress in cardiomyocytes. Its manipulation has shown significant effects on ferroptosis markers. Administering miR-196c-3p via a NIR-II light-activated gel mitigated ferroptosis in ischemia-reperfusion models by enhancing GPX4 expression and lowering levels of iron and lipid peroxidation (Ji et al., 2023).

MiRNAs such as miR-450b-5p, miR-210-3p, miR-144-3p, and miR-141-3p are crucial regulators of the balance between antioxidant defenses and ferroptosis in MIRI (Yu et al., 2023; Lei et al., 2022; Ye et al., 2023; Zhu et al., 2024). Targeting these miRNAs offers potential therapeutic strategies to reduce ferroptosis-induced damage.

The role of lncRNAs and microRNAs in regulating ferroptosis during MIRI remains an important area of ongoing research. Future studies should focus on identifying additional RNA molecules linked to MIRI through advanced techniques like high-throughput sequencing, which will further illuminate the complex ferroptosis regulatory network. Examining the specific pathways through which lncRNAs and microRNAs regulate ferroptosis, including the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) mechanism, is crucial.With a better understanding of their functions, preclinical experiments can then explore their potential as therapeutic targets for MIRI.