Advances in endogenous hypochlorous acid-mediated regulation of tumor cell fates.

Hypochlorous acid (HOCl), an important reactive oxygen species generated by myeloperoxidase (MPO), is widely involved in the pathogenesis of various conditions, including cardiovascular, renal, and neurodegenerative diseases, as well as cancer. This article reviews recent progress regarding the roles of HOCl in determining cell fate and driving disease progression. We first introduce the mechanisms of HOCl formation and its explicit mechanistic links to these pathologies. Subsequently, we summarize the oxidative modification of biological macromolecules, focusing specifically on proteins. Furthermore, we highlight the regulatory functions of HOCl in cell fate decisions, its disruptive interactions with subcellular organelles, and its paradoxical effects within the tumor microenvironment. Finally, we discuss potential clinical therapeutics and diagnostics that target HOCl-associated signaling pathways. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a systematic understanding of HOCl in disease development and to stimulate the design of novel therapeutic strategies.