Iron,a vital trace element and redox-active metal in the human body,is pivotal in cellular processes and en-gages in a multitude of biological reactions.Ferroptosis,an emerging form of regulated cell death,is predominantly instiga-ted by the excessive free iron that catalyzes reactive oxygen species(ROS)production via the Fenton reaction.This process results in the peroxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids within the cellular lipid membrane,compromising the membrane's integrity and thereby inducing ferroptosis.In the context of diabetic retinopathy(DR),ferroptosis plays a sig-nificant role.The disruption of iron metabolism,the excessive accumulation of ROS,and the imbalance of the antioxidant system are key mechanisms contributing to ferroptosis in retinal tissues and the exacerbation of DR's pathological progres-sion.This review provides a systematic summary and in-depth discussion of the advancements in understanding the role of ferroptosis in DR pathogenesis,intending to offer valuable insights for future research endeavors in this field.

Iron,a vital trace element and redox-active metal in the human body,is pivotal in cellular processes and en-gages in a multitude of biological reactions.Ferroptosis,an emerging form of regulated cell death,is predominantly instiga-ted by the excessive free iron that catalyzes reactive oxygen species(ROS)production via the Fenton reaction.This process results in the peroxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids within the cellular lipid membrane,compromising the membrane's integrity and thereby inducing ferroptosis.In the context of diabetic retinopathy(DR),ferroptosis plays a sig-nificant role.The disruption of iron metabolism,the excessive accumulation of ROS,and the imbalance of the antioxidant system are key mechanisms contributing to ferroptosis in retinal tissues and the exacerbation of DR's pathological progres-sion.This review provides a systematic summary and in-depth discussion of the advancements in understanding the role of ferroptosis in DR pathogenesis,intending to offer valuable insights for future research endeavors in this field.