Gene Mutation

Single GPX4 mutation exposes ferroptosis as driver of early childhood dementia

December 09, 2025 Reported by AI Image generated by AI Fact checked

Researchers in Germany have identified a rare mutation in the GPX4 enzyme that disables its protective role in neurons, allowing toxic lipid peroxides to damage cell membranes and trigger ferroptotic cell death. Studies in patient-derived cells and mice show a pattern of neurodegeneration that resembles changes seen in Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.