Decoding the evolution of meningeal lymphatic system research: A decade of bibliometric insights (2015–2025)

Abstract

Background

The landmark discovery of the meningeal lymphatic system (MLS) has revolutionized our understanding of CNS waste clearance and immune surveillance. Despite a decade of transformative research since its identification in 2015, a comprehensive analysis of its developmental trajectory, current research landscape, and future directions is lacking. This bibliometric study systematically analyzes the first decade of MLS research (2015–2025), with a particular emphasis on neurorestoration potential.

Methods

We retrieved relevant publications from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) between 2015 and 2025. Data were processed using Microsoft Excel, while collaborative networks among countries, institutions, journals, and authors were analyzed via VOSviewer, CiteSpace, GraphPad Prism, Web of Science, and the online bibliometric platform (http://bibliometric.com/). The key metrics included article types, research trends, citation patterns, and keyword frequency.

Results

A total of 449 publications from 2546 authors across 703 institutions in 46 countries published in 230 academic journals were identified. Nature communications contributed the largest number of MLS-related articles, whereas Nature was the most cocited journal. The majority of publications focused on immunology and cell biology. The United States and China emerged as leading contributors, with the University of Virginia producing the largest number of publications. Kipnis Jonathan was the most prolific author, whereas Louveau Antoine received the greatest number of cocitations. Keyword co-occurrence and reference analysis revealed that the “glymphatic system” and “meningeal lymphatic vessels” were central research themes. Notably, neurodegenerative diseases emerged as a rapidly growing research hotspot in MLS studies.

Conclusion

This decade-spanning analysis reveals the potential of MLS research for clinically relevant neurorestorative applications. The recognition of MLS as a regulator of immune function and neural repair has positioned them as compelling therapeutic targets. Our study highlights key trends and predicts future directions in MLS research. These insights will help prioritize research efforts to harness MLS biology for central nervous system repair paradigms.