Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Modulating Reactive Oxygen Species: Synthesis, Properties, and Therapeutic Applications in Disease Treatment

Despite substantial advances in modern medicine, neurodegenerative diseases, chronic disorders, and cancers remain major clinical challenges in which dysregulated reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a critical role. Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs), because of their unique physicochemical properties, have emerged as promising metal oxide nanomaterials for biomedical applications, particularly in regulating intracellular ROS levels. Although extensive studies have investigated IONPs in biomedicine, a systematic review focusing on their therapeutic roles has not been conducted. In this review, we summarize representative synthesis strategies and key properties of IONPs and highlight their therapeutic applications based on ROS scavenging, ROS generation, and other related mechanisms. In addition, safety issues, mechanistic insights, and prospects for clinical translation are discussed, aiming to provide a comprehensive framework to guide future research and accelerate clinical development of IONP-based therapies.