Core Insights - Cell ferroptosis has been confirmed to be related to the development of various liver diseases [1] - A new study from Japan indicates that two volatile molecules produced during ferroptosis can be detected in the breath of patients [1] Group 1: Research Findings - Ferroptosis is a specific type of programmed cell death characterized by abnormal accumulation of iron ions and lipid peroxidation [1] - The main pathological process of ferroptosis involves irreversible damage to cell membrane structures due to lipid peroxidation, leading to loss of cell function [1] - Current detection methods for ferroptosis primarily rely on invasive tissue biopsies, which impose significant burdens on patients [1] Group 2: Methodology and Implications - Researchers from Kyoto University and other institutions utilized a newly developed oxidative volatile organic compound analysis technique to study volatile molecules released during ferroptosis [1] - The study identified two "iron-smelling molecules" that increase in concentration as ferroptosis progresses [1] - These molecules were found to be elevated in both the liver and breath of liver disease model mice, as well as in the breath of liver disease patients [1] Group 3: Future Applications - Based on the research findings, alternative methods to liver biopsy could be developed for health diagnostics and monitoring the progression of liver diseases [2] - The research results have been published in the journal "Redox Biology" [2]