Hydroxycitric acid inhibits ferroptosis and ameliorates benign prostatic hyperplasia by upregulating the Nrf2/GPX4 pathway

Ferroptosis is an important pathological process in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) that can exacerbate lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Hydroxycitric acid (HCA), an active component of the traditional Chinese medicine Garcinia cambogia, exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties, and preclinical studies have confirmed its anti-obesity effects. In this study, we investigated the effects of HCA on propionate testosterone-induced BPH and found that HCA treatment significantly reduced ferroptosis in the prostate. Further mechanistic studies indicated that Nrf2 is crucial for HCA-induced upregulation of GPX4, which mitigates ferroptosis by reducing iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation. Overall, these findings provide insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of BPH.