TETRAHYDROBIOPTERIN AS A STRATEGY TO OVERCOME FERROPTOSIS RESISTANCE IN MELANOMA

Abstract

Melanoma is characterized by a high burden of oncogenic mutations and the accumulation of reactive oxygen species, which together promote cell survival and resistance to cell death. Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) plays a central role in maintaining redox homeostasis, contributing to melanoma progression. In metastatic stages, increased BH4 levels may represent a resistance strategy against ferroptosis, a form of cell death induced by various chemotherapeutic agents and targeted therapies. Thus, inhibition of the BH4 pathway emerges as a promising therapeutic strategy, with the potential to overcome ferroptosis resistance and expand treatment options for patients with melanoma