Mapping Intellectual Structure for the Long Non-Coding RNA in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Development Research

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Bioinformatics

Background:

• Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are increasingly recognized for their roles in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development.
• Numerous differentially expressed lncRNAs have been identified in HCC, necessitating a comprehensive overview of current research.
• Understanding lncRNA involvement in HCC is crucial for advancing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a bibliometric and visualized analysis of research on long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development.
• To identify key trends, influential countries, institutions, authors, and journals in the field from 2010-2020.
• To offer a valuable reference for researchers focusing on lncRNAs and HCC.

Main Methods:

• Bibliometric analysis of 2,667 publications from the Web of Science Core Collection (2010-2020).
• Utilized CiteSpace software (version 5.6.R4) for network visualization and analysis.
• Evaluated collaborations and intellectual structure through country, institution, author, journal, and keyword networks.

Main Results:

• Significant increase in annual publications on lncRNAs in HCC from 2010-2020.
• China led in publication volume, while the United States dominated collaborative networks.
• Nanjing Medical University was the most productive institution; Gang Chen and Yang F were highly prolific and co-cited authors, respectively. Key journals included Oncotarget, Cell, and Oncogene. Emerging keywords: interaction, database, pathway.

Conclusions:

• This bibliometric study offers a comprehensive overview of lncRNA research in HCC development.
• Identified key players and research hotspots provide a roadmap for future investigations.
• The findings serve as a valuable reference for scientists in the field of lncRNAs and HCC.