Emerging Trends and Hot Spots in Epigenetic Modifications in Neurology: A Bibliometric Analysis

This study employs a bibliometric analysis to examine the evolution and future trajectories in epigenetic modifications in neurology from 2004 to 2024. A total of 12,964 publications were scrutinized via the R bibliometrix package and VOSviewer for network visualization, complemented by Scimagp Graphica to elucidate global collaborative networks. Our extensive review reveals a significant growth in the field of epigenetic neurology studies, driven by an increased output of publications and evidenced by an enhanced focus on epigenetic modifications. The USA and McGill University are recognized as central contributors, with Nature leading as the most prolific journal and J. Mill and E.J. Nestler distinguishing themselves as key authors by publication volume and citation impact, respectively. A detailed keyword analysis highlighted "expression," "DNA methylation," "brain," "gene-expression," and "gene" as the most recurrent terms, indicating core areas of research concentration. Subsequent manual analysis due to software-detected inaccuracies reaffirmed Alzheimer's disease, cancer, and schizophrenia as predominant neurological diseases associated with epigenetic studies. Pathophysiological processes such as DNA methylation, oxidative stress, and synaptic plasticity have been extensively examined in relation to epigenetic modifications in neurology. Synthesis of the reference literature analysis identifies critical themes such as the role of glucocorticoid receptors, the significance of hydroxymethylcytosine in neural DNA, the implications of epigenetic patterns in mental health, and the impact of BDNF gene on memory consolidation. Emerging technologies and underexplored areas further highlight future directions. These insights into epigenetic research in neurology indicate a sustained and intensifying trajectory, hinting at expanding horizons for future therapeutic approaches and interventions. Our findings underscore an active and progressing interest in neurological epigenetics, suggesting a continued expansion and specialization in the exploration of epigenetic mechanisms and their clinical relevance.