Ferroptosis, a new form of cell death, and its relationships with tumourous diseases

Abstract Ferroptosis is a newly discovered type of cell death that differs from traditional apoptosis and necrosis and results from iron‐dependent lipid peroxide accumulation. Ferroptotic cell death is characterized by cytological changes, including cell volume shrinkage and increased mitochondrial membrane density. Ferroptosis can be induced by two classes of small‐molecule substances known as class 1 (system X c − inhibitors) and class 2 ferroptosis inducers [glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPx4) inhibitors]. In addition to these small‐molecule substances, a number of drugs (e.g. sorafenib, artemisinin and its derivatives) can induce ferroptosis. Various factors, such as the mevalonate (MVA) and sulphur‐transfer…