Unraveling the Link: Ferroptosis and Its Implications in Cerebrovascular Diseases

Cerebrovascular diseases, encompassing a spectrum of conditions affecting the blood vessels supplying the brain, represent a significant global health burden. Among the diverse mechanisms implicated in cerebrovascular pathology, emerging evidence highlights the role of ferroptosis, a regulated form of cell death characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation. The review also elucidates the molecular mechanisms underlying ferroptosis, emphasizing the pivotal role of iron, the intracellular antioxidant system, and lipid metabolism. Subsequently, it explores the growing body of literature implicating ferroptosis in the pathogenesis of various cerebrovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, ischemic stroke, intracerebral hemorrhage, and subarachnoid hemorrhage. Special attention is given to the interplay between ferroptosis and other established mechanisms, such as oxidative stress, and inflammation. Moreover, pharmacological interventions and therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating key players in the ferroptosis cascade are explored, with a focus on their translational potential for clinical application. Finally, the review addresses current gaps in knowledge and proposes future research directions, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of the specific roles of ferroptosis in the pathogenesis of cerebrovascular diseases. The elucidation of these aspects holds promise for advancing our comprehension of cerebrovascular pathology and opening new avenues for therapeutic intervention in these debilitating conditions.