A new review published in EXO – Beyond the Cell examines the propagation of ferroptosis, an iron-dependent regulated cell death, suggesting it spreads in wave-like patterns across tissues. Traditionally seen as a process affecting individual cells due to iron-driven lipid peroxidation, recent studies indicate that ferroptosis can propagate, leading to synchronized cell death in large populations. The authors, Saloni K. Hombalkar, Jyotirekha Das, and Michael Overholtzer, synthesize findings from various experimental models, including kidney injury and cancer, highlighting the phenomenon of 'death waves' where neighboring cells undergo ferroptosis sequentially. They describe two propagation forms: localized propagation through direct cell contact and long-range propagation across distances exceeding 100 micrometers, potentially via transferable signals. Lipid peroxides and iron are identified as likely candidates for these signals, with evidence showing that antioxidants can inhibit propagation. The review also discusses the potential role of lysosomes and extracellular vesicles in this process, proposing that damaged cells may release structures that trigger ferroptosis in neighboring cells. Understanding these mechanisms could transform approaches to tissue degeneration and therapeutic strategies in various diseases.