Mapping the evolution of liver aging research: A bibliometric analysis

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Hepatology
• Bibliometrics

Background:

• The global aging population necessitates research into healthy aging and age-related diseases.
• The liver plays a critical role in metabolism, detoxification, and immunity during aging.
• No prior bibliometric analysis has comprehensively evaluated scientific progress in liver aging research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a bibliometric analysis of liver aging research.
• To identify fundamental knowledge, development trends, and emerging research frontiers.
• To map the scientific landscape of liver aging.

Main Methods:

• Bibliometric analysis using Python, R (bibliometrix), CiteSpace, and VOSviewer.
• Data sourced from the Web of Science Core Collection.
• Knowledge mapping of authors, journals, countries, institutions, keywords, and co-cited references.
• Analysis of gene regulation pathways via the STRING database.

Main Results:

• 4288 articles published between 1991 and 2020, with significant bursts in 1991 and 2020.
• The United States leads in publications, citations, and international collaborations.
• Prominent keywords include 'lipid metabolism,' 'fatty liver disease,' 'inflammation,' and 'liver fibrosis.'
• Top 64 genes identified are involved in critical aging pathways like PI3K/AKT, FOXO, and p53 signaling.

Conclusions:

• This study provides a comprehensive overview of liver aging research.
• It highlights key research areas and trends for future investigation.
• Offers insights for potential collaborations and clinical applications in healthy aging.