GSTM3 enhances radiosensitivity of nasopharyngeal carcinoma by promoting radiation-induced ferroptosis through USP14/FASN axis and GPX4

Background: Radiotherapy is a critical treatment modality for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). However, the mechanisms underlying radiation resistance and tumour recurrence in NPC remain incompletely understood.

Methods: Oxidised lipids were assessed through targeted metabolomics. Ferroptosis levels were evaluated using cell viability, clonogenic survival, lipid peroxidation, and transmission electron microscopy. We investigated the biological functions of glutathione S-transferase mu 3 (GSTM3) in cell lines and xenograft tumours. Co-immunoprecipitation, mass spectrometry, and immunofluorescence were conducted to explore the molecular mechanisms involving GSTM3. Immunohistochemistry was performed to investigate the clinical characteristics of GSTM3.

Results: Ionising radiation (IR) promoted lipid peroxidation and induced Ferroptosis in NPC cells. GSTM3 was upregulated following IR exposure and correlated with IR-induced Ferroptosis, enhancing NPC radiosensitivity in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, GSTM3 stabilised Ubiquitin-Specific Peptidase 14 (USP14), thereby inhibiting the ubiquitination and subsequent degradation of fatty acid synthase (FASN). Additionally, GSTM3 interacted with Glutathione Peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and suppressed GPX4 expression. Combining IR treatment with Ferroptosis inducers synergistically improved NPC radiosensitivity and suppressed tumour growth. Notably, a decrease in GSTM3 abundance predicted tumour relapse and poor prognosis.

Conclusions: Our findings elucidate the pivotal role of GSTM3 in IR-induced Ferroptosis, offering strategies for the treatment of radiation-resistant or recurrent NPC.