Knowledge map of programmed cell death in esophageal cancer: a bibliometric analysis

This study aimed to delineate the evolving knowledge structure of programmed cell death in esophageal cancer and identify key thematic trends, influential collaborations, and emerging areas for future research.

A bibliometric approach was applied to 2677 publications retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (2000-2024). Three complementary tools-CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and bibliometrix-were employed to visualize co-citation networks, detect citation bursts, and map collaborative patterns among authors, institutions, and countries. Inclusion criteria focused on articles and reviews that addressed esophageal cancer in conjunction with apoptosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, autophagy, or related pathways.

Publication outputs grew markedly, reflecting a shift from early investigations of basic apoptotic mechanisms to broader explorations of necroptosis, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis. China led in publication volume and citations, driven by substantial governmental funding and large clinical cohorts. The United States and Japan also contributed significantly, forming international research networks that spanned Asia and Europe. Leading institutions, particularly Zhengzhou University, demonstrated extensive collaborations. Journals such as Oncology Letters and Oncology Reports were prominent outlets for new findings, while highly cited references highlighted hypoxia, immune checkpoint blockade, and emerging gene-editing strategies. Keyword analyses revealed the ascendance of immuno-oncology, network pharmacology, and translational applications targeting multiple regulated cell death pathways.

Bibliometric evidence underscores a rapid expansion of multidisciplinary research that integrates diverse cell death pathways in esophageal cancer. Continued international collaborations, leveraging advanced genomics and immunologic strategies, are poised to accelerate translational breakthroughs and enable more personalized, effective therapies.