The research progress on the mechanisms and therapeutic targets of ferroptosis and epigenetic modifications in diabetic complications

Diabetes, as a prevalent chronic metabolic disease, imposes a heavy medical burden and economic pressure on society. The long-term dysregulation of glucose metabolism leads to multi-system (including cardiovascular, renal, neurological, etc.) damage, which constitutes the core pathological features of diabetic complications. In recent years, ferroptosis and epigenetic regulation have emerged as new research directions, gradually becoming a burgeoning field of study. Increasing evidence suggests that epigenetics may play a significant role in regulating the relationship between ferroptosis and diabetic complications. Notably, the epigenetics of certain key iron metabolism genes may influence the epigenetic “switch” of the ferroptosis pathway. This article systematically reviews the molecular mechanisms of ferroptosis and epigenetics in diabetic microvascular complications, neuropathy, and other related conditions, while exploring potential therapeutic targets based on epigenetic regulation to provide a theoretical basis for the treatment of diabetic complications.