Curcumin induces ferroptosis in ovarian cancer cells through the Nrf2/GPX4 regulation axis

levels, and depletion of GSH. Moreover, curcumin suppressed the Nrf2/GPX4 signaling pathway in these cells. Conversely, Nrf2 overexpression significantly upregulated the protein levels of SLC7A11 and GPX4 and enhanced the survival, migration, and invasion capabilities of SK-OV-3 and A2780 OC cells. Furthermore, Nrf2 overexpression significantly attenuated curcumin-induced apoptosis and ferroptosis in SK-OV-3 and A2780 cells, effectively preserving the antioxidant capacity of OC cells. These findings indicate that curcumin exerts anti-tumor effects in SK-OV-3 and A2780 OC cells by inducing apoptosis and ferroptosis through inhibition of the Nrf2/GPX4 signaling axis. Conversely, overexpression of Nrf2 strengthens the endogenous antioxidant defense system in SK-OV-3 and A2780 OC cells, contributing to curcumin resistance. Therefore, targeted regulation of the Nrf2/GPX4 signaling axis may represent a promising therapeutic strategy to overcome chemotherapy resistance in ovarian cancer.