[Iron metabolism dysregulation drives tumor progression: mechanisms and therapeutic strategies].

Malignant tumors are major diseases that threaten human health. A long-standing focus of research is how to eliminate tumor cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. This article systematically reviews the dual role of iron metabolism in tumorigenesis and progression. Firstly, disruption of iron homeostasis promotes malignant transformation through mechanisms including oxidative stress, signaling transduction, and epigenetic regulation. Secondly, ferroptosis triggered by iron overload offers a novel avenue for targeted cancer therapy. Based on the established relationship between iron metabolism and cancer progression, this paper proposes therapeutic strategies centered on iron chelators, ferroptosis inducers, and nanomaterials. It further elaborates on recent advances in combining iron metabolism modulation with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, epigenetic therapy, and other modalities. Finally, by elucidating the core mechanism through which iron metabolism promotes cancer, we suggest potential therapeutic directions, aiming to provide new insights for advancing precision oncology and developing novel anticancer agents.