Leonurine Ameliorates Diabetic Nephropathy through GPX4-Mediated Ferroptosis of Endothelial Cells

Abstract

LEO exerts anti-DN effects both <i>in vivo</i> and <i>in vitro</i> by suppressing GPX4-mediated EC ferroptosis. Mechanistically, LEO appears to induce Nrf2-mediated GPX4 expression to inhibit ferroptosis, thereby reducing EC dysfunction. This study provides a new perspective on the treatment of diseases using natural medicines. It involves a novel form of cell death that could potentially lead to better treatment of DN.