Intersection of ferroptosis and nanomaterials brings benefits to breast cancer

Abstract

Breast cancer (BC) is the most frequently diagnosed malignancy among women worldwide, with a high incidence and mortality rate. Despite advances in treatment, approximately 10%–15% of patients with BC still face recurrence. Therefore, improving BC therapy remains a significant challenge. In this article, we provide a detailed overview, categorizing and elaborating the developments of current research progress on nanodrug delivery systems based on ferroptosis for BC treatment. By increasing the iron content in BC cells and inhibiting the defense system against ferroptosis, the accumulation of lipid peroxides is promoted, and ferroptosis is induced in BC cells. In addition to directly targeting tumor cells, nanodrug delivery systems can remodel the tumor microenvironment, inhibit BC primary growth, and prevent distant metastasis. These nanomaterials, after drug loading and modification, possess characteristics such as smart activation, controlled release, specific targeting, good biocompatibility, and long circulation time, thereby enhancing the efficacy of BC treatment. We also classify and discuss the mechanisms and advantages of different types of nanomaterials. Finally, we discuss how multifunctional nanosystems can sensitize ferroptosis when combined with radiotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and phototherapy to achieve synergistic effects in BC treatment. This work reveals the potential of ferroptosis-based nanomaterials in overcoming BC, analyzes the limitations of the clinical application and proposes possible solutions, offering a promising direction for future treatment strategies.