Global research trends in microbiome-gut-brain axis during 2009-2018: a bibliometric and visualized study

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Microbiology
• Immunology

Background:

• The microbiome-gut-brain axis (MGBA) describes the complex bidirectional communication between gut microbes and the central nervous system.
• The precise mechanisms underlying MGBA signaling remain incompletely understood.
• This study analyzes global research trends in the MGBA field from 2009-2018.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify global research output on the MGBA.
• To identify key research themes and collaborations within the MGBA field.
• To map the evolution of MGBA research over the last decade.

Main Methods:

• Bibliometric analysis of publications from the Scopus database (2009-2018).
• Utilized keywords "microbiome-gut-brain axis" and synonyms for focused analysis.
• Employed VOSviewer for visualization of country/author collaborations and topic co-occurrence.

Main Results:

• 1713 MGBA-related publications were identified, comprising original articles, reviews, and other document types.
• The USA led in publications and citation impact, followed by Ireland, China, and Canada.
• Cluster analysis revealed four dominant research directions: animal modeling, gut-immune system interplay, irritable bowel syndrome, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Conclusions:

• MGBA research has significantly increased globally over the past decade.
• Prominent research themes include immunomodulation, irritable bowel syndrome, and neurodevelopmental disorders.
• While progress is substantial, further research is needed to translate MGBA findings into therapeutic interventions for various diseases.