Knowledge Structure, Research Hotspots and Emerging Trends in the Role of miRNAs in Neuropathic Pain: a Quantitative...

Neuropathic pain, caused by nerve injury or dysfunction, is a complex and chronic condition with limited treatment options beyond advances in pain management. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), which are small noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression, play a critical role in pain modulation. The aim of this study was to identify research hotspots and trends in miRNA-related neuropathic pain studies, highlighting the potential of miRNAs as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. A bibliometric analysis of 394 articles (2009-2024) retrieved from the Web of Science database was conducted, and Python was used to evaluate collaborations at the country, institutional, and individual levels, as well as keyword bursts, citation trends, and clustering. The analysis revealed a large increase in the number of publications, particularly from 2019 to 2022. China, the USA, and Germany are the leading contributors, with notable contributions from key researchers such as Zhang Yang and Su Zhen. Research is primarily focused on miRNAs in primary sensory neurons, apoptosis, bioinformatics, spinal cord injury, and biomarkers, but there are challenges that need to be addressed, including a narrow focus on specific miRNAs, isolated pathways, limited standardized evidence, and an overreliance on animal models. Future trends suggest expanding regulatory networks, analyzing interconnected pathways, standardizing protocols, and conducting clinical and human trials. This study provides researchers and clinicians a comprehensive overview of current research and future prospects in the field. Furthermore, this review can encourage clinicians to develop and improve miRNA-based therapies, offering new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for neuropathic pain.