Review explores ferroptosis in ocular microenvironment and potential therapeutic interventions

This systematic review examines the role of ferroptosis—a form of regulated cell death—within the ocular microenvironment and its bidirectional crosstalk with the ocular immune system. The review focuses on how ferroptosis is implicated in driving neuroinflammation and tissue degeneration, evaluating emerging interventions such as natural and dietary compounds that may regulate ferroptosis, alongside advanced drug delivery systems including nanocarriers and hydrogels. No specific study population, sample size, comparator, or quantitative clinical outcomes are reported, as the review synthesizes preclinical and mechanistic evidence.

The main finding is that ferroptosis contributes to the disruption of the ocular microenvironment, promoting processes linked to degeneration. The review positions natural compounds and advanced delivery platforms as having therapeutic potential, but it does not provide efficacy data, effect sizes, or patient outcomes from clinical trials. Safety and tolerability information for any proposed interventions is not reported.

Key limitations include the review's focus on addressing current translational barriers from laboratory to clinic, indicating the evidence is primarily theoretical and preclinical. The authors note the work provides a roadmap for advancing ferroptosis-targeted therapies in ophthalmology. For clinicians, this review offers a mechanistic framework and highlights areas for future research, but it does not support immediate clinical application due to the absence of clinical trial data.