Unlocking the Diagnostic and Therapeutic Potential of microRNA in Diabetes: A Bibliometric and Visualized Analysis (2003-2023).

Background: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) hold considerable therapeutic potential for diabetes mellitus (DM). Over the past few decades, substantial progress has been made in miRNA-related diabetes research; however, comprehensive bibliometric analyses in this field remain limited. This study aims to comprehensively review the research status of miRNAs in DM, including the contributions of countries, institutions, authors and published journals, and explore the latest progress, research hotspots, and future trends.

Methods: Bibliometric analysis was conducted using CiteSpace and VOSviewer by searching relevant literature in the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC). With 5197 relevant publications retrieved from January 1, 2003, to October 31, 2023, the field of miRNAs in DM witnessed a generally upward trend in global publications.

Results: Global publications on miRNAs in DM showed a sustained upward trajectory. China led in publication output and influence, likely linked to its high DM prevalence. Cluster analysis identified diabetic retinopathy and diabetic nephropathy as primary research foci among co-cited studies. Keyword analysis emphasizes the top 10 words like miRNA, expression, biomarker, insulin resistance, diabetes, diabetes nephropathy, apoptosis, cell, and oxidative stress.

Conclusion: Research on miRNAs in DM has grown significantly, with emphasis on understanding pathogenesis and identifying therapeutic targets. This field will be further studied and translated into clinical practice in the future.