Bibliometric and visualization analysis of cancer associated with intestinal flora through genetics and epigenetics from 1991 to 2024.

Abstract

Background: Intestinal flora, or gut microbiota, has increasingly been recognized for its potential role in cancer development and progression. Beyond direct interactions with systemic organs, gut microbiota and its metabolites can modulate epigenetic processes such as DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNA regulation. This study aims to bridge this gap by conducting a bibliometric and visualization analysis of the scientific literature on cancer associated with intestinal flora.

Methods: We utilized bibliometric software to examine publication trends, citation patterns, and collaborative networks within the field. Visualization techniques were applied to pinpoint influential authors, institutions, and countries. The analysis encompassed a comprehensive search of relevant databases to gather data on publications related to intestinal flora and cancer.

Results: Our findings indicate a substantial rise in publications over recent decades, signifying an intensifying focus on the intestinal flora-cancer connection. Key research hotspots identified include the microbiota's role in colorectal cancer, the interplay between microbiota and the host immune system, the epigenetic impacts of gut microbiota on cancer development, and the promise of microbiota-targeted therapies for cancer treatment. The analysis also revealed a network of prominent researchers, leading institutions, and countries at the forefront of this research area.

Conclusions: This study offers a panoramic view of the current research on cancer associated with intestinal flora and underscores potential avenues for future exploration. The insights gleaned from our bibliometric and visualization analysis may guide the development of targeted strategies for cancer prevention and treatment, harnessing the power of the gut microbiota.