Lipid peroxidation and possible hydroxyl radical formation stimulated by the self-reduction of a doxorubicin-iron (III) complex.

In the presence of ferric ions, doxorubicin forms a complex which self-reduces the iron moiety to form a ferrous complex. This ferrous complex can generate active radicals able to degrade deoxyribose as well as form a species greatly stimulatory towards lipid peroxidation. Both reactions may explain the damage to different sites within the body associated with doxorubicin therapy.