Bufalin induces ferroptosis by modulating the 2,4-dienoyl-CoA reductase (DECR1)-SLC7A11 axis in breast cancer

Breast cancer (BC) is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. 2,4-dienoyl-CoA reductase (DECR1), an auxiliary component of beta-oxidation, has been recognized for its role in enhancing lipid peroxidation and inducing ferroptosis in prostate cancer. However, its involvement in breast cancer remains largely unexplored. Our study revealed a notably elevated expression of DECR1 in breast cancer tissues, which correlated with increased malignant characteristics. Importantly, the overexpression of DECR1 significantly enhanced proliferation and migration capabilities in MDA-MB-231 cells. Through a comprehensive high-content screening approach, we identified bufalin and its derivative as potent inhibitors of DECR1 expression. Notably, bufalin demonstrated the highest binding energy during molecular docking studies and was found to promote the degradation of DECR1 via autophagy and ubiquitination. Furthermore, bufalin induced ferroptosis in MDA-MB-231 cells by modulating levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), triglycerides (TG), reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Fe