Research progress on ferroptosis in gliomas (Review)

Abstract

Glioma is the most prevalent type of brain tumor characterized by a poor 5-year survival rate and a high mortality rate. Malignant gliomas are commonly treated by surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. However, due to toxicity and resistance to chemoradiotherapy, these treatments can be ineffective. Anxiety and depression are highly prevalent in patients with glioma, adversely affecting disease prognosis and posing societal concerns. Ferroptosis is a type of non-apoptotic, iron-dependent cell death characterized by the accumulation of lethal reactive oxygen species produced by iron metabolism, and it serves a key role in numerous diseases. Regulation of iron phagocytosis may serve as a therapeutic strategy for the development of novel glioma treatments. The present review discusses the mechanisms underlying the occurrence and regulation of ferroptosis, its role in the genesis and evolution of gliomas, and its association with glioma-related anxiety and depression. By exploring potential targets for glioma treatment, the present review provides a theoretical basis for the development of novel therapeutic strategies against glioma.

1. Introduction

Global statistics show that ~49% of malignant brain tumors are glioblastomas and 30% are diffuse infiltrating low-grade gliomas (1). The 2021 World Health Organization (WHO) classification central nervous system (CNS)5 is a new system that combines the histological features and molecular phenotypes of tumors. According to this classification system, gliomas can be divided into adult diffuse gliomas, diffuse low-grade gliomas in children, diffuse high-grade gliomas in children and localized astrocyte gliomas. Furthermore, gliomas are divided into four grades based on the degree of malignancy: WHO Grades I and II are classified as low-grade gliomas, whereas WHO Grades III and IV are classified as high-grade gliomas (2). High-grade gliomas, such as glioblastoma, are associated with poor outcomes and a 5-year relative survival rate of <6.9% (3). Thus, early identification and treatment are crucial for improving the prognosis of patients with gliomas (4).

Traditional glioma treatment typically involves surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. The biocomplexity of glioma cells, including their heterogeneity, high proliferation rate and infiltration, contributes to their high recurrence and drug resistance. Despite continual improvement in the understanding of the pathological mechanism of glioma, the quality of life of patients remains dismal (5). Thus, identifying the most effective targets and treatments for glioma is essential.

In addition to the challenges of disease progression and recurrence, psychological problems, such as anxiety and depression, often characterize patients with gliomas (6). Individuals with anxiety disorders frequently exhibit symptoms of depression, and those with depression frequently experience anxiety disorders. The two conditions can occur concurrently, and individuals can meet the criteria for both. These two widely prevalent psychiatric disorders substantially contribute to morbidity and mortality worldwide. Comorbid depression and anxiety disorders occur in up to 25% of general practice patients in Australia (7). Comorbid anxiety and depression are particularly attributed to shared predisposition or the possibility that one condition can manifest as an epiphenomenon of the other (8). A previous study reported the association of neuroinflammation, oxidative stress and nitrosative stress with depression and its comorbidities (9). Moderate to severe depression and anxiety were diagnosed in 28 and 36% of patients with glioma, respectively (10). Although their precise causes remain unknown, anxiety and depression remain severe problems in patients with glioma (11). Furthermore, a retrospective study illustrated that patients with glioma and depression are associated with shorter overall survival (OS) when compared with patients without depression, with median survival times of 7 and 11 months, respectively. Preoperative depression has been identified as an independent factor predicting poorer OS in patients with glioma.

Ferroptosis is a novel form of iron-dependent programmed cell death characterized by specific hallmarks, such as glutathione depletion, decreased glutathione peroxidase activity and the inability of lipid oxides to be processed through the glutathione peroxidase (GPX) pathway, which is catalyzed by GPX4. Ferroptosis is promoted by the oxidation of lipids by divalent iron ions, resulting in the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) (12). Recent studies have reported that ferroptosis is a significant factor in certain malignancies and degenerative disorders, including gliomas (13), triple-negative breast cancer (14), colorectal cancer (15), liver cancer (16) and kidney cancer (17). Regulating ferroptosis is a potential therapeutic approach towards the development of new treatment modalities.

2. Iron metabolism

Iron is indispensable to life, having a crucial role in numerous physiological activities. Specifically, iron-containing enzymes are involved in key physiological activities, such as ATP production, DNA synthesis and oxygen transport (18). Furthermore, iron serves an essential role in brain development and function, and is involved in various biological processes, such as embryonic neuronal development, myelination, neurotransmitter synthesis and oxidative phosphorylation (19). Iron is also vital for the activity of enzymes involved in the production of monoamines (such as dopamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine and serotonin), which are associated with social-emotional development, executive functioning and memory processes. However, iron deficiency compromises the activities of iron-dependent enzymes in all tissues. Furthermore, although iron promotes cell division and growth, it can also lead to cell damage, as excessive iron accumulation can be toxic, activating cell death signaling pathways through oxidative stress (20).

Previous studies have demonstrated a relationship between iron metabolism dysregulation and certain illnesses, including cancer, neurological diseases and atherosclerosis (21,22). To maintain adequate and safe iron levels, cells express diverse coordinated proteins that strictly regulate both intracellular and systemic iron metabolism. Among these proteins, iron transporters play a crucial role in controlling iron absorption, storage, distribution and overall iron homeostasis (23).

Iron absorption

The apical brush border membranes of the small intestine absorb both heme and non-heme iron. To facilitate this process, ferric reductase duodenal cytochrome b converts non-heme Fe³⁺ entering the colon cells to ferrous ions (Fe²⁺). Divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1), a proton-coupled transporter found on the apical membrane of intestinal epithelial cells, absorbs dietary non-heme iron (mainly ferric, Fe³⁺) (24). Iron-chaperone poly(C)-binding protein 2 (PCBP2) mediates the transfer of iron to ferritin (25). PCBP2 binds to DMT1 and ferroportin (FPN), encoded by the solute carrier family (SLC)40 member A1 gene] to facilitate the export of iron from the epithelial cell layer into the bloodstream (Fig. 1A) (24,26–30).

Figure 1.

Iron metabolism. (A) Iron absorption. DCYTB mediates the conversion of dietary non-heme iron (Fe³⁺) to ferrous ion (Fe²⁺), which is then absorbed by DMT1 in the membrane of intestinal epithelial cells. Following this intake, iron is either retained in ferritin or transferred to the basement membrane by the iron-chaperone PCBP2, where it is subsequently converted to Fe³⁺ by hephaestin. Finally, iron is discharged to the portal circulation through FPN. Tf attaches to the exported iron, which is then transported to numerous peripheral tissues. HRG-1 may uptake heme through endocytosis. Heme is degraded by heme oxygenase once it has been absorbed. Similar to the transport of non-heme iron, iron liberated from heme is transferred to portal vein blood through FPN. (B) Iron distribution. Hepcidin regulates the production of FPN by directly binding to FPN and promoting its breakdown, thus facilitating the transport of iron to the portal vein. Iron is mainly distributed in red blood cells, which transport oxygen in the blood, and tissues, such as muscle, liver and bone marrow. DCYTB, duodenal cytochrome b; DMT1, divalent metal transporter 1; PCBP2, poly(C)-binding protein 2; FPN, ferroportin; HRG-1, heme responsive gene-1; Tf, transferrin.

Although the mechanisms of heme iron absorption are not entirely clear, two types of carrier proteins are hypothesized to be involved. Firstly, heme carrier protein 1 (HCP1) has initially been associated with iron absorption. However, HCP1 has been identified to exhibit high affinity for folate, and primarily functions as a folate transporter instead of an iron transporter (31). Secondly, the role of heme-responsive gene 1 (HRG-1) has gained attention. HRG-1 exhibits a high sensitivity to heme and may activate the endocytosis pathway for heme trafficking into the cytosol (Fig. 1) (32). Next, heme is broken down by heme oxygenase, producing Fe²⁺, which is then metabolized in the same pathway as non-heme iron (33).

Iron transport

Cells primarily absorb plasma transferrin (Tf)-bound iron through Tf receptor (R)1. The interaction between Fe2⁺ and TfR1 at the plasma membrane induces receptor-mediated endocytosis of the Tf/TfR1 complex. In the nucleus, DMT1 transfers iron from the Tf/TfR1 complex to the cytoplasm after reduction by the prostate epithelial transmembrane protein, converting it to Fe²⁺. Tf/TfR1 is then recycled to the cell surface and released into the plasma. After transportation to the peripheral blood, hephaestin converts Fe²⁺ to Fe³⁺. Iron is chelated and redox-active in the labile iron pool (LIP) within the cell. Iron from the LIP is transported to different cell regions to meet metabolic demands or stored in ferritin (Fig. 1) (34).

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) and blood-cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) barrier (BCSFB) separate the central nervous system from the dynamic environment of the bloodstream (35). The BBB is a complicated multicellular system composed of endothelial cells and a distinct basement membrane (36–38). The BCSFB is located in the choroid plexus of the lateral, third and fourth cerebral ventricles. A carrier system of choroid plexus epithelial cells can facilitate material exchange between CSF and blood. Thus, the transportation of iron across the BBB and BCSFB is necessary for iron to enter the brain (39,40).

The Tf/TfR1 pathway is a potential route through which iron transporters can cross the luminal (apical) membrane of the BBB. Hephaestin (HEPH) and FPN1/ceruloplasmin (CP) mediate the transport of iron through the luminal membrane (41,42). The Tf/TfR1/DMT1 pathway is a key iron transport mechanism through the BCSFB. Moreover, the FPN1/CP or FPN1/HEPH pathway mediates iron export from the choroidal epithelium to the CSF. The degree of TfR1 expression in neurons is proportional to their iron needs. Neurons express DMT1, which transfers iron from Tf to the cytoplasm (43). Furthermore, DMT1 is implicated in the iron uptake of hippocampal neurons during maturation and memory formation (44,45).

Astrocytes in the central nervous system engage in intracellular iron transport to maintain extracellular iron balance. DMT1 may mediate this uptake, and FPN1 and CP have been demonstrated to be highly expressed on astrocyte membranes; these two proteins may be necessary for iron to leave astrocytes and enter the extracellular brain region (46,47).

3. Lipid metabolism

Lipid peroxidation serves as a hallmark of ferroptosis, a process that directly damages cell membranes and leads to ferroptotic cell death. This buildup of lipid peroxides in cell membranes is initiated by the inhibition of glutathione (GSH) production, import of cysteine from the extracellular environment and direct inhibition of GPX4 activity. Lipid peroxidation predominantly occurs via enzymatic and non-enzymatic oxidation (48). The lipoxygenase (LOX) family, which oxidizes free and esterified polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) to generate peroxide radicals, controls enzymatic lipid peroxidation. Acyl-CoA synthetase long chain (ACSL) family member 4 and lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase 3 facilitate the binding of PUFAs to phospholipids, thereby producing PUFA phospholipids (PUFA-PLs). PUFA-PLs are susceptible to lipid peroxidation induced by arachidonic acid (A)LOXs, which eventually results in the loss of the lipid bilayer and impairs cell membrane function, thus increasing ferroptosis (49).

Radiotherapy can increase the expression of ACSL4, thereby enhancing ferroptosis in glioma cells. Meanwhile, ACSL1 is responsible for ferroptosis induced by conjugated linoleic acid. By contrast, ACSL3 transforms monounsaturated fatty acids into acyl-CoA esters, which bind to membrane phospholipids, thereby preventing ferroptosis in cancer cells. Moreover, cancer-associated fibroblasts secrete microRNA-522 through the exosome pathway, which inhibits cancer cell ferroptosis by targeting ALOX15 and inhibiting the accumulation of lipid-ROS. Additionally, vitamin E can suppress ALOX activity (50). However, although LOX activators alone do not directly cause ferroptosis, a previous study reported that ALOXs overexpression enhanced sensitivity to the small compound erastin. It has been suggested that overexpression of wild-type ALOX15, rather than ALOX15 with an N-terminal truncation, enhances iron deposition induced by Erastin (51). In addition, LOX is crucial for ferroptosis when GSH is depleted (49). In most cases, LOX may not be the primary driver of ferroptosis, but it may contribute to the initiation or spread of damage. The 15-LOX/phosphatidylethanolamine-binding protein 1 (PEBP1) complex is produced through the interaction of LOX with PEBP1. Ferroptosis is initiated by the ferroptosis signal molecule 15-hydroperoxy-eicosa-tetraenoyl-phosphatidylethanolamine (49) (Fig. 2).

Figure 2.

Lipid peroxidation process. ACSL4 and LPCAT3 mediate PUFA binding to phospholipids to produce PUFA-PLs, while ALOXs further induce the production of lipid peroxides, ultimately destroying the lipid bilayer. MUFA is converted into acyl-CoA under the action of ACSL3, thereby inhibiting ferroptosis. LOX interacts with PEBP1 to produce 15-HPETE-PE, leading to ferroptotic death. CAFs produce extracellular vesicles containing miR-522, which can inhibit ROS accumulation and target ALOX15 to inhibit ferroptosis. ACSL, acyl-CoA synthetase long chain; LPCAT3, lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase 3; PUFA, polyunsaturated fatty acid; PUFA-PL, PUFA phospholipid; MUFA, monounsaturated fatty acid; LOX, lipoxygenase; ALOX, arachidonic acid LOX; PEBP1, phosphatidylethanolamine-binding protein 1; 15-HPETE-PE, 15-hydroperoxy-eicosa-tetraenoyl-phosphatidylethanolamine; CAFs, cancer-associated fibroblasts; miR, microRNA; ROS, reactive oxygen species; PLOOH, phospholipid hydroperoxide; iPLA2β, calcium-independent PLA2β; α-ESA, α-eleostearic a.

4. Ferroptosis

System x_c⁻

Cysteine deficiency serves a significant role in the induction of ferroptosis and is a major contributor to ferroptosis in glioblastoma (52). In the cell membrane, the amino acid transport system x_c⁻ is composed of two key components, SLC7A11 (xCT) and SLC3A2 (also known as 4F2 cell-surface antigen heavy chain). This system facilitates the exchange of glutamate and cysteine. Once inside the cell, cysteine 2 (Cys2) is converted into cysteine, which stimulates the production of the GPX4 substrate GSH (53). GPX4, a fundamental regulator of ferroptosis, may convert GSH to oxidized glutathione and reduce lipid hydroperoxides to lipid alcohols. This mechanism is essential for the prevention of lipid peroxidation and inhibition of ferroptosis (54). Both GPX4 knockdown and inactivation result in ferroptosis (55). By blocking cysteine transport through system x_c⁻, the ferroptosis inducer elastin can cause GSH depletion and GPX4 inactivation (56), whereas RAS-selective lethal 3 directly promotes ferroptosis by reducing GPX4 activity. Cysteine is an essential limiting amino acid for the synthesis of intracellular GSH, and GPX4 function is immediately affected by GSH depletion. Thus, system x_c⁻ that is responsible for Cys2 absorption is considered to be one of the most important regulators of ferroptosis (Fig. 3).

Figure 3.

Ferroptosis process. The main participating system in ferroptotic death is the amino acid transport system x_c⁻, composed of the SLC1A5 and SLC3A2 families. SLC, solute carrier family; ACSL4, acyl-CoA synthetase long chain family member 4; GPX4, glutathione peroxidase; GSH, glutathione; GSSG, glutathione disulfide; ROS, reactive oxygen species; TfR1, transferrin receptor 1; α-KG, α-ketoglutarate; Cys, cysteine; Cys2, cysteine2; Glu, glutamate; Gln, glutamine; LOH, lipid alcohol; LOOH, lipid hydroperoxidecid; TCA cycle, tricarboxylic acid cycle.

SLC1A5 and SLC3A2

SLC1A5 and SLC3A2 are essential proteins for the transmembrane translocation of glutamine into cells (57). Once inside the cells, glutaminases are transported to the mitochondria and glutamine is converted into glutamate and ammonia. Glutamate can then be transformed into α-ketoglutarate (α-KG), a crucial step in the tricarboxylic acid cycle (Fig. 3) (58). Dihydrolipoamide dehydrogenase (DLD) serves a crucial role in the promotion of ferroptosis, especially in cases of cysteine deficiency or inhibition of cysteine import. α-KG can stimulate DLD to generate hydrogen peroxide, and it can also be converted into acetyl-CoA, thereby enhancing fatty acid production and promoting lipid peroxidation-dependent ferroptosis (59).

Gene transcriptional regulatory network

Complex transcriptional regulatory networks affect the cell vulnerability to ferroptosis. Several transcription factors have been demonstrated to control certain ferroptosis-related genes (60). For instance, the transcription factors tumor protein p53 (TP53), activating transcription factor (ATF)3, BTB domain and CNC homolog 1 (BACH1) and STAT1 upregulate SLC7A11 and downregulate nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NFE2L2/Nrf2), ATF4 and aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator-like protein 1. The intricate roles served by various transcription factors associated with ferroptosis, including TP53 and NFE2L2, are shown in Fig. 4. TP53 upregulation has been shown to suppress expression of the system x⁻_c transporter subunit SLC7A11 and sensitize cells to ferroptosis (18).

Figure 4.

Ferroptosis-related transcriptional regulation. Activation of TP53 exerts a minimal effect on GSH levels or GPX4 function, but it downregulates SLC7A11 and inhibits cysteine absorption. Activation of TP53 results in the production of GSH, CDKN1A, GLS2 and TIGAR. DPP4/CD26 interacts with TP53 in the nucleus and is maintained in a dormant state, whereas TP53 deficiency promotes DDP4 cell membrane localization. DDP4 induces ferroptosis by binding to NOX1 on the cell membrane. TP53, tumor protein p53; GSH, glutathione; GPX, glutathione peroxidase; SLC, solute carrier family; CDKN1A, cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1A; GLS2, glutaminase 2; TIGAR, TP53-induced glycolytic regulatory phosphatase; DPP4, dipeptidyl peptidase 4; NOX, NADPH oxidase; NFE2L2, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2; ALOX, arachidonic acid lipoxygenase; FTH1, ferritin heavy chain.

NFE2L2 exerts multiple effects on ferroptosis via transcriptional regulation. First, it inhibits ferroptosis by upregulating iron metabolism genes, including FTH1, SLC40A1, HMOX1 and MT1G. Second, NFE2L2 activation enhances the expression of SLC7A11, GCLM, CBS, CHAC1, ABCC1/MRP1, GCLC and GSS, which are involved in GSH production, metabolism and release. Third, several NFE2L2 target genes, including NQO1, TXNRD1, AKR1C1/2/3, SESN2, GSTP1, GPXs, GSR, SRXN1, ALDH and PRDXs, participate in detoxification or antioxidant activities, which may reduce ferroptosis sensitivity. Therefore, NFE2L2 serves a crucial role in the transcriptional regulation of ferroptosis, primarily via the activation of genes that counteract cellular damage (61).

5. Regulation of iron homeostasis

The maintenance of iron homeostasis is crucial. Hepcidin, a 25-amino acid peptide hormone synthesized and released by the liver, serves a key role in the regulation of iron storage, distribution and consumption. It regulates FPN production by directly binding to FPN and promoting its breakdown (62). An excessive increase in iron levels induces the production of hepcidin, which destroys FPN in intestinal epithelial cells, thus reducing plasma iron levels. By contrast, under iron-deficient conditions, hepcidin levels decrease to maintain FPN expression, facilitating the release of iron into the plasma (63). As aforementioned, DMT1 and TfR1 are essential proteins found in cells that help regulate intracellular iron concentration, thereby serving a vital role in iron homeostasis. Elevated iron levels can lead to the formation of hydroxyl radicals through the Fenton reaction, particularly when combined with hydrogen peroxide. This process induces the oxidation of PUFAs in cell membranes, substantially accelerating lipid peroxidation and ultimately causing cell damage or death (64).

In the brain, the BBB and BCSFB serve crucial roles in maintaining the stability of physical and chemical elements in the brain tissue environment. The BBB is the most significant barrier in the brain that prevents ~98% of small molecule reagents from passing when treating CNS-related disease (65). Moreover, these barriers regulate the transport of iron from the bloodstream to the brain parenchyma, helping to maintain brain iron levels largely independent of systemic iron levels and providing protection against systemic iron toxicity (37,38). In addition, iron ion equilibrium is maintained by three antioxidant mechanisms, namely GSH, selenium and Coenzyme Q (CoQ) systems.

GSH system

GSH is an antioxidant tripeptide composed of glutamic acid, cysteine and glycine. The enzyme glutamate cysteine ligase continuously catalyzes the production of GSH from glutamic acid and cysteine. However, the limited availability of cysteine within cells can decrease GSH production. To counteract this limitation, system x_c⁻ serves as a transport mechanism during GSH production. Inhibition of systemic x_c-depletes intracellular cysteine, leads to a decrease in glutathione concentration and triggers oxidative stress, and increases the sensitivity of cells to ferroptosis (34). GSH serves a vital role in the system x_c⁻/GSH/GPX4-dependent antioxidant defense pathway during ferroptosis, and it is essential for the maintenance of normal GPX4 activity (66,67). GPX4 has three subtypes: Mitochondrial, cellular solute and nuclear; it remains unclear which of these subtypes is mainly involved in the regulation of anti-ferroptotic effects (18).

Selenium system

Selenium, an essential trace element, regulates cellular redox processes during oxidative stress. In selenocysteine-containing proteins, such as GPX4, selenium serves a crucial role in the enhancement of their antioxidant function during ferroptosis. Selenium deficiency results in cellular death that depends on lipid peroxidation (68). A previous study reported that sodium selenite can reduce heme-driven ferroptosis triggered by homocysteine (a metabolite of methionine) or intracerebral hemorrhage. and enhanced the transcriptional upregulation of selenoprotein genes (including GPX4, Selenop and Txnrd1) and GPX3. However, it remains unclear whether selenoproteins other than GPX4 are also involved in the control of ferroptosis (69).

CoQ system

CoQ, commonly known as ubiquinone, is an endogenously generated and ubiquitous oxy-benzoquinone molecule. By promoting the movement of electrons from complexes I and II to complex III, CoQ10 substantially contributes to the electron transport chain. In addition, the lipophilic antioxidant CoQ can be transformed into panthenol, a reduced form that is considered to be involved in the recovery of other antioxidants (such as ascorbate and tocopherol), preventing cells from undergoing ferroptosis without the need for GSH (70). Apoptosis-inducing factor mitochondria-associated 2/ferroptosis-suppressor protein 1 (FSP1) regulates ferroptosis by synthesizing CoQH₂ (Fig. 5) (71).

Figure 5.

Ferroptosis-related defense systems. Label A represents the GPX4-GSH axis; label B represents the FSP1-CoQ10-NAD(P)H pathway; label C represents the DHODH-mediated ferroptosis defense; label D represents the GCH1-BH4-DHFR axis; and label E represents the ESCRT III-mediated plasma membrane repair system. GPX, glutathione peroxidase; GSH, glutathione; GSSG, oxidized glutathione; FSP1, ferroptosis suppressor protein 1; CoQ, coenzyme Q; CoQH₂, Coenzyme QH₂; DHODH, dihydroorotate dehydrogenase; GCH1, GTP cyclohydrolase 1; BH4, tetrahydrobiopterin; BH2, dihydrobiopterin; DHFR, dihydrofolate reductase; ESCRT, endosomal sorting complex required for transport; IPP, Isopentenyl pyrophosphate.

There are at least five defensive mechanisms, including the GPX4-GSH axis, FSP1-CoQ10-NAD(P)H pathway, DHODH-mediated ferroptosis defense, GCH1-BH4-DHFR axis, and ESCRT III-mediated plasma membrane repair system, which are involved in the reduction or alleviation of the damage caused by ferroptosis (49) (Fig. 5).

6. Glioma

Ferroptosis, a form of programmed cell death driven by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, has an unclear role in the death of glioma cells. In addition to depleting GSH and cysteine, phenylarsine oxide (PAB) has been reported to cause abnormal elevations in the levels of intracellular ferrous ion, H₂O₂ and lipid peroxides, reducing the survival of glioma cells both in vitro and in vivo. Deferoxamine, an iron chelator, has been reported to reduce PAB-induced lipid peroxidation and glioma cell death in vitro, whereas ferric ammonium citrate could reverse these effects. Ferrostatin-1- and GSH-induced suppression of lipid peroxidation inhibited glioblastoma (U87 and U251) cell death induced by PAB. Treatment with PAB resulted in intact cell membranes, fewer mitochondria, denser mitochondrial membranes, normal nuclear size and no chromatin condensation. PAB increased intracellular iron levels by activating Tf receptors. Excessive iron supply triggered the activation of NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4), leading to excessive H₂O₂ and lipid peroxide production. Additionally, PAB increased the production of H₂O₂ and lipid peroxides by causing intracellular GSH depletion via the p53-mediated xCT pathway. Thus, PAB may induce glioblastoma multiforme cell ferroptosis, potentially serving as a glioma treatment (72).

Overexpression of the nuclear factor (erythroid-derived)-like 2 (NFE2L2) or suppression of the Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) has been shown to promote glioblastoma invasiveness and hence accelerate glioma growth (72). The Keap1/NFE2L2 signaling pathway can modulate ferroptosis activation (72). High mobility group box 1 protein has been reported to induce ferroptosis in mesangial cells by stimulating the Keap1/NFE2L2 signaling pathway (73). By downregulating NFE2L2 and inhibiting the nuclear receptor subfamily 2 group F member 6/KEAP1 signaling pathway, apatinib has been demonstrated to induce ferroptosis in glioma cells. Ibuprofen stimulates ferroptosis by inhibiting Keap1/NFE2L2 signaling. Moreover, NFE2L2 overexpression or Keap1 knockdown has been reported to expedite the proliferation and oncogenic transformation of glioblastoma U87 cells (74). Thus, the Keap1/NFE2L2 pathway may inhibit ferroptosis (75,76).

Similar to NFE2L2, xCT is positively regulated by ATF4 and serves a pivotal role in reducing ferroptosis-induced ROS production in glioblastoma multiforme cells. xCT can be induced by activating ATF4. Continuous targeting to promote ATF4-dependent processes activates xCT and thus enhances the growth of malignant gliomas (72). In addition, ATF4 has been reported to promote tumor angiogenesis in gliomas and affect the vascular architecture in an xCT-dependent manner. In a manner that is dependent on xCT, pseudolaric acid B also causes ferroptosis (77).

Ubiquitin thioesterase OTUB1 is abundantly expressed in gliomas. A novel axis of OTUB1/SLC7A11 contributing to the stemness of glioblastoma U373, U87 and U251 cell lines has been reported in a recent study (78). OTUB1 was demonstrated to stabilize SLC7A11 by directly interacting with it, while in the absence of OTUB1, ferroptosis was triggered by SLC7A11 expression.

In addition to limiting proliferation via vitamin C deficiency and ACSL4 inhibition, ferroptosis can be achieved by activating the transcription factors BACH1 or NOX4 to increase oxidative stress, restrict autophagy and trigger cell death. Drugs, such as 2-nitroimidazoles, temozolomide and artemisinin (and its derivatives) have been developed based on these principles. Downregulation of GPX4 and subsequent accumulation of lipid ROS are the key mechanisms through which dihydroartemisinin triggers ferroptosis. Ferrostatin-1, a specific inhibitor of ferroptosis, was reported to reverse all these changes (79). Additionally, temozolomide has been reported to induce ferroptosis by increasing DMT1 expression in the TJ905 glioblastoma cell line. Thus, DMT1 may be used as a therapeutic target for glioblastoma (80–82).

A study examining expression data from The Cancer Genome Atlas reported that a higher tumor grade and poor prognosis in patients with glioma were associated with the upregulation of coatomer subunit ζ-1 (COPZ1). Moreover, ferritin phagocytosis, which has been linked with the development of cancer and degenerative diseases, has been associated with nuclear receptor coactivator 4 (NCOA4) expression (83). Knockdown of COPZ1 can activate NCOA4, leading to the degradation of ferritin. The Fenton reaction, which is triggered by large concentrations of divalent iron, increases ROS production, and lipid peroxidation caused by ROS eventually leads to ferroptosis. Studies have indicated that depletion of COPZ1 induces ferroptosis in glioma cells by increasing NCOA4 and ATG7 levels. Thus, the COPZ1/NCOA4/FTH1 axis may be a novel therapeutic target in the treatment of glioma (84).

7. Anxiety and depression

The development of psychological disorders is a complex process that often involves the accumulation of multiple emotional changes instead of a single emotional shift. An increase in the prevalence of anxiety and depression is typically accompanied by an increase in suicide rates, which is a major concern in contemporary society. Depression and anxiety, the two most prevalent psychological diseases, are responsible for the morbidity and mortality of millions of individuals worldwide (85). Numerous biological, psychological and social environmental variables (86–88) contribute to the pathophysiology of depression and anxiety, such as personal experiences, workplace culture and significant life events. Psychological problems can exert diverse effects on physical health. Depression and anxiety disorders have been reported to co-occur with cardiovascular disease, trauma and numerous forms of cancer, such as lung cancer, breast cancer and malignant brain tumors (89). Cancer-related chronic pain and its management may lead to mental disorders, and depression and anxiety in particular can alter the synthesis of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, the metabolism of neurotransmitters and the function of the neuroendocrine system (90).

Glioma is a fatal neurological disease associated with sexual dysfunction, cognitive impairment and possibly death. It is the most widespread and hazardous form of central nervous system tumor, account for 40–60% of all primary central nervous system tumors (91,92). Glioma is often accompanied by psychological disorders, such as anxiety and depression. In one study, the prevalence of anxiety disorders and depression in patients with glioma determined using different diagnostic scales, such as Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Quality of Life Core Questionnaire were 36.6–37.4 and 28.4–32.6% (93), respectively. Negative emotions in response to the tumor and the interplay between the immune, neural and psychological systems may lead to anxiety and depression in patients with glioma, and anxiety and depression have been reported to shorten the survival time in such patients (89,94,95). However, the precise cause remains unknown, and anxiety and depression continue to be important problems for patients with glioma.

A total of 190 patients with glioma treated with resection were included in a previous study. The hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS) and the Zung self-rating anxiety scale (SAS) were used to assess anxiety, whereas the HADS and the Zung self-rating depression scale (SDS) were used to assess depression. All patients were monitored for 36 months or until death. According to the survival data, OS was calculated, and The HADS for anxiety, SAS and SDS were associated with a shorter OS, while the HADS for depression was not (93). Changes in the levels of receptor-interacting protein kinase 3, phosphorylated mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein, ferritin light chain and lipid peroxidation related to ferroptosis were demonstrated using western blotting and biochemical assays. The study reported a relationship between ferroptosis and depression, thereby identifying a possible therapeutic target for depression (93).

The presence of lipid peroxidation in psychiatric diseases has been demonstrated through clinical research. High lipid peroxidation rates were reported to increase the probability of treatment-resistant depression (96). Recently, edaravone was shown to ameliorate depression- and anxiety-like behaviors, oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in mouse models of depression induced by chronic social defeat stress (97).

GPX4-mediated ferroptosis may be modulated through underlying molecular mechanisms involving the sirtuin 1/Nrf2/heme oxygenase-1 pathway (Fig. 6). This previous study suggested that abnormal GPX4 expression is a potential mechanism underlying depression (97). Therefore, GPX4-mediated ferroptosis may be a promising target for treating major depressive disorder. Xiao Yao San, a traditional Chinese medicine, was reported to exert therapeutic effects by increasing the expression of GPX4 and other ferroptosis-related molecules in the hippocampus of depressed rats (97). A previous study revealed a downregulation of ERK levels in the brains of depressed individuals with suicidal tendencies (98). Alterations in the expression of PEBP1 may influence the ERK pathway, potentially contributing to the development of depression (98).

Figure 6.

Mechanisms of anxiety and depression in glioma. Changes in microenvironmental oxidative stress in glioma can regulate ferroptotic death through a potential mechanism involving the Sirt1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, thereby affecting anxiety and depression. GPX, glutathione peroxidase; ROS, reactive oxygen species; Sirt1, sirtuin 1; Nrf2, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2; HO-1, heme oxygenase 1.

8. Conclusion

Ferroptosis occurs due to an imbalance between the body's antioxidant and oxidative mechanisms. Ferroptosis has been linked to numerous diseases and systemic conditions, including certain types of cancer, cardiovascular and digestive disorders. Moreover, ferroptosis serves a crucial role in the occurrence and development of gliomas, as well as the metabolic process of anxiety and depression, which can be caused by cancer. Ferroptosis-related biomarkers and long non-coding RNAs, such as AP003555.1 and AC000584.1, have been reported to be useful in predicting prognosis in patients with gliomas (99). Anxiety and depression can affect the prognosis of these patients, shortening their survival time. A recent study proposed that the WHO classification of gliomas is an independent risk factor for anxiety (93). However, no experimental study has elucidated the mechanism underlying glioma ferroptosis. More thorough research on ferroptosis is needed to assess its advantages and disadvantages, to enhance patient survival and quality of life, and to improve long-term clinical outcomes for patients with gliomas. The present review summarizes the research progress on ferroptosis in gliomas and its mechanistic relevance to anxiety and depression. For patients with gliomas, the focus should not only be on treatment methods, but also on their quality of life after being diagnosed, with the state of their mental health being the most concerning and a matter of societal interest. Patients with neuroglioma have a high incidence of anxiety and depression, markedly impacting their quality of life. Therefore, the evaluation of the mechanisms behind anxiety and depression in patients with glioma can provide a theoretical basis for the improvement of patient outcomes.

Funding Statement

Funding: No funding was received.

Availability of data and materials

Not applicable.

Authors' contributions

YB wrote the majority of the manuscript. LM was involved in topic selection and wrote a draft of the review. ZY, WL and MJ edited the manuscript. All authors have read and approved the final manuscript. Data authentication is not applicable.

Ethics approval and consent to participate

Not applicable.

Patient consent for publication

Not applicable.

Competing interests

The authors declare that they have no competing interests.