Regulation of Ferroptosis by Amino Acid Metabolism in Cancer

Int J Biol Sci. 2022 Feb 7;18(4):1695-1705. doi: 10.7150/ijbs.64982. eCollection 2022.

Abstract

Ferroptosis, a new form of programmed necrosis characterized by iron-dependent lethal accumulation of lipid hydroperoxides, is associated with many human diseases. Targeting amino acid (AA) availability can selectively suppress tumor growth and has been a promising therapeutic strategy for cancer therapy. Compelling studies have indicated that AA metabolism is also involved in ferroptosis, closely regulating its initiation and execution. This manuscript systematically summarizes the latest advances of AA metabolism in regulating ferroptosis and discusses the potential combination of therapeutic strategies that simultaneously target AA metabolism and ferroptosis in cancer to eliminate tumors or limit their invasiveness.

Keywords: amino acid metabolism; cancer; combinatorial therapy; ferroptosis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Amino Acids / therapeutic use
  • Apoptosis
  • Ferroptosis*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms* / metabolism

Substances

  • Amino Acids