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Updated: Jan 18, 2026

Global and Current Research Trends of Single-Cell Sequencing in Cancer: A Bibliometric and Visualization Study
Published on: April 18, 2025
Exploring research trends in cancer immunotherapy via single-cell technologies: a scientometric perspective
Zhongxun Li1,2, Qi Han1,2, Zimu Huang3
1Shanxi Key Laboratory of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Cancer, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China.
Single-cell sequencing revolutionizes cancer immunotherapy research by clarifying complex mechanisms and patient variability. This technology aids in identifying biomarkers and personalizing treatment strategies for improved outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Sciences
- Immunology
- Genomics
Background:
- Cancer immunotherapy offers promise but faces challenges due to complex mechanisms and individual patient differences.
- Single-cell analysis technology is rapidly advancing, providing novel approaches to study immunotherapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze and visualize the literature on the application of single-cell sequencing in cancer immunotherapy.
- To identify key research hotspots and emerging trends in this field.
Main Methods:
- Bibliometric analysis of literature from the Web of Science Core Collection.
- Utilization of tools including Bibliometrix, CiteSpace, and VOSviewer for quantitative analysis and visualization.
Main Results:
- A total of 4856 related articles were identified, with a significant average annual growth rate of 25.14%.
- China and the United States are leading contributors, with key journals like Frontiers in Immunology and Nature Communications publishing influential work.
- Current research focuses on tumor immune microenvironment and cellular heterogeneity, with emerging trends in spatial transcriptomics, standardized processes, and T cell function.
Conclusions:
- Single-cell sequencing is transforming cancer immunotherapy research paradigms.
- It enhances understanding of the immune microenvironment and therapeutic heterogeneity.
- This technology is crucial for identifying precise biomarkers and developing individualized treatment plans.
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