Unveiling ferroptosis as a promising therapeutic avenue for colorectal cancer and colitis treatment

Ferroptosis is a novel type of regulated cell death (RCD) involving iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation. Since its discovery in 2012, various studies have shown that ferroptosis is associated with the pathogenesis of various diseases. Ferroptotic cell death has also been linked to intestinal dysfunction but can act as either a positive or negative regulator of intestinal disease, depending on the cell type and disease context. The continued investigation of mechanisms underlying ferroptosis provides a wealth of potential for developing novel treatments. Considering the growing prevalence of intestinal diseases, particularly colorectal cancer (CRC) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), this review article focuses on potential therapeutics targeting the ferroptotic pathway in relation to CRC and IBD.