Ferroptosis as a Therapeutic Target in Neurodegenerative Diseases: Exploring the Mechanisms and Potential of Treating Alzheimer's Disease and Parkinson's Disease

Amidst the rising global burden of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, there is an urgent need for novel therapeutic strategies to combat these debilitating conditions. These diseases are characterized by progressive neural dysfunction leading to cognitive impairments, for which current therapeutic strategies remain palliative at best. Recently, the discovery of ferroptosis, a novel cell death mode that is different from apoptosis and autophagy, has opened new avenues in the field of cognitive research. With in-depth research on ferroptosis, the clinical significance of iron homeostasis disorders and lipid peroxidation in the occurrence, development, and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases are gradually becoming apparent. This study aims to elucidate the roles of ferroptosis in the context of neurodegeneration and to explore its potential as a therapeutic target. By unraveling the intricate relationship between iron homeostasis disorders, oxidative damage, and lipid metabolism disturbances in these diseases, new intervention targets are revealed. It offers a new dimension to the management of neurocognitive impairments in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. The implications of these findings extend beyond just Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. They also have relevance with other neurological conditions characterized by oxidative stress and iron dysregulation. This review contributes to increased knowledge of ferroptosis and provides a foundational understanding that could lead to the development of innovative therapeutic strategies. Ultimately, it may alleviate the development of neurodegenerative diseases and improve cognitive function by preventing ferroptosis, which has not only academic significance but also potential clinical significance.