Cuproptosis: molecular mechanisms, cancer prognosis, and therapeutic applications

Abstract Cuproptosis differs from other forms of cell death, such as apoptosis, necroptosis, and ferroptosis, in its unique molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways. In this review, we delve into the cellular metabolic pathways of copper, highlighting the role of copper in biomolecule synthesis, mitochondrial respiration, and antioxidant defense. Furthermore, we elucidate the relationship between cuproptosis-related genes (CRGs) and cancer prognosis, analyzing their expression patterns across various tumor types and their impact on patient outcomes. Our review also uncovers the potential