Research Dynamics of Tissue Spheroids as Building Blocks: A Scientometric Analysis

Area of Science:

• Regenerative Medicine
• Tissue Engineering
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Tissue spheroids offer a 3D *in vitro* model mimicking native tissue complexity.
• They serve as micro-scale building blocks for assembling larger tissue constructs.
• The potential of tissue spheroids necessitates an assessment of research dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the research evolution of tissue spheroids as building blocks for tissue constructs.
• To fill the existing research gap concerning the use of spheroids in construct assembly.
• To provide insights for R&D strategy development in spheroid technologies.

Main Methods:

• A scientometric analysis was conducted on literature from January 1, 2015, to December 31, 2021.
• Bibliometric performance indicators were quantified using data from the Scopus database.
• Key parameters analyzed included subject areas, countries, institutions, techniques, cells, and applications.

Main Results:

• Identified leading subject areas, geographical distributions (countries, cities), and prominent journals/institutions.
• Characterized the types of techniques, cells, and culture durations employed in spheroid research.
• Highlighted the principal applications driving the field of tissue spheroid technology.

Conclusions:

• The study provides a comprehensive overview of research trends in tissue spheroids as building blocks.
• Findings support the strategic definition and growth of research and development in this area.
• This analysis aids in understanding the current landscape and future directions for tissue spheroid applications.