The role of ferroptosis in endothelial cell dysfunction.

Ferroptosis is a form of iron-dependent cell death caused by an excessive accumulation of reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation. The importance of ferroptosis in the occurrence and progression of various diseases is gradually being recognized; however, the exact biological effects and potential mechanisms of endothelial cell ferroptosis remain unclear. The endothelium forms the innermost layer of the blood vessels and lymphatic vessels. It acts as an important functional interface, responds to various pathological stimuli and causes endothelial dysfunction. Here, we review recent findings to elucidate the role of ferroptosis in endothelial cells under different pathophysiologic settings.