# Bridging innate immunity and iron-dependent death: the interplay between cyclic GMP–AMP synthase–stimulator of interferon genes nexus and ferroptosis in cancer and inflammation

## TL;DR

This review explores how the cGAS–STING immune pathway and ferroptosis, an iron-dependent cell death process, interact in cancer and inflammation.

## Contribution

The paper systematically identifies key molecules linking cGAS–STING and ferroptosis and proposes therapeutic strategies targeting their crosstalk.

## Key findings

- The cGAS–STING pathway detects DNA and activates immune responses through TBK1–IRF3 and nuclear factor-κB signaling.
- Ferroptosis involves iron-dependent lipid peroxidation and is linked to disrupted antioxidant systems.
- Therapeutic strategies targeting the crosstalk between these pathways show potential for cancer treatment.

## Abstract

The cyclic GMP–AMP synthase (cGAS)–stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway and ferroptosis have emerged as fundamental biological mechanisms that converge in regulating cellular homeostasis and disease pathogenesis. As a central component of innate immunity, the cGAS–STING axis detects cytosolic double-stranded DNA through cGAS-mediated synthesis of 2′3′-cyclic GMP–AMP, subsequently triggering STING-dependent activation of the TBK1–IRF3 and nuclear factor-κB signaling cascades. Ferroptosis, an iron-catalyzed form of regulated cell death, is characterized by the accumulation of phospholipid hydroperoxide due to compromised antioxidant activity and dysregulated iron metabolism. Accumulating evidence has revealed the intricate crosstalk between these pathways. This review systematically explores the structural and biochemical bases of both pathways, identifies key bridging molecules that mediate their interactions, and discusses therapeutic strategies targeting this crosstalk, particularly in cancer treatment.