Iron toxicity in intracerebral hemorrhage: Physiopathological and therapeutic implications

Brain Res Bull. 2022 Jan:178:144-154. doi: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2021.11.014. Epub 2021 Nov 26.

Abstract

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH)-induced brain injury is a continuous pathological process that involves the deterioration of neurological functions, such as sensory, cognitive or motor functions. Cytotoxic byproducts of red blood cell lysis, especially free iron, appear to be a significant pathophysiologic mechanism leading to ICH-induced injury. Free iron has a crucial role in secondary brain injury after ICH. Chelating iron may attenuate iron-induced neurotoxicity and may be developed as a therapeutic candidate for ICH treatment. In this review, we focused on the potential role of iron toxicity in ICH-induced injury and iron chelation therapy in the management of ICH. It will hopefully advance our understanding of the pathogenesis of ICH and lead to new approaches for treatment.

Keywords: Ferroptosis; Intracerebral hemorrhage; Iron chelator; Iron toxicity.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cerebral Hemorrhage / drug therapy*
  • Cerebral Hemorrhage / metabolism*
  • Ferroptosis / drug effects*
  • Humans
  • Iron / toxicity*
  • Iron Chelating Agents / pharmacology*
  • Neurotoxicity Syndromes / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Iron Chelating Agents
  • Iron