The role of antioxidant therapy in modulating neuropathic pain: A systematic review of mechanistic insights and research trends (2003-2024).

Abstract

This bibliometric analysis investigates the role of antioxidant therapy in addressing neuropathic pain, emphasizing mechanistic insights and research trends from 2003 to 2024. Neuropathic pain, often unresponsive to standard treatments, is closely associated with oxidative stress as a key factor in its pathophysiology. This study utilizes the Web of Science Core Collection to analyze 699 articles related to "antioxidants" and "neuropathic pain." CiteSpace software was employed to examine publication trends, global collaborations, co-citation networks, and research hotspots. Results indicate a consistent rise in research activity, peaking in 2022, with China, India, and Italy as leading contributors. The University of Florence and Universidade Federal de Santa Maria emerged as prominent institutions, while influential authors included Pol Olga and Trevisan Gabriela. Key studies highlighted oxidative stress and neuropathic pain mechanisms, with neuroinflammation and specific molecular pathways gaining attention as emerging research foci. The findings underscore the growing interest in antioxidant therapies as potential interventions for neuropathic pain. Despite significant advances in understanding underlying mechanisms, there is a need for further exploration of novel antioxidants and their clinical applications. Enhanced international collaboration and the use of advanced molecular techniques are essential to drive future progress in this field.