In ferroptosis (a recently characterized form of regulated cell death), cell death is driven primarily by which mechanism?

• A Caspase-3 activation and DNA laddering
• B Gasdermin D pore formation and IL-1β release
• C Iron-dependent accumulation of lipid peroxidation products ✓
• D RIPK3-MLKL pathway causing plasma membrane rupture

Explanation

Ferroptosis is a regulated cell death modality characterized by iron-dependent accumulation of lipid peroxides from polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in cell membranes. The key regulator is GPX4 (glutathione peroxidase 4), which detoxifies lipid hydroperoxides; its inhibition (by RSL3, erastin via GSH depletion) triggers ferroptosis. Unlike apoptosis (caspase-dependent DNA laddering), pyroptosis (gasdermin D, IL-1β), or necroptosis (RIPK3/MLKL), ferroptosis is morphologically characterized by mitochondrial shrinkage and loss of membrane integrity without nuclear fragmentation. Relevant to cancer therapy resistance.

Reference: Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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