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Mapping Research on Nrf2 in Diabetic Nephropathy (2000-2025): A Comprehensive Data-mining-based Study
Jie Lin1, Tianle Zeng1, Cuiying Liao1
1Department of Nephrology, Dongguan Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Dongguan, Guangdong, 523000, China.
Introduction/Objective:
Diabetic Nephropathy (DN) is the main cause of End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) worldwide. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is an important molecular target for regulating oxidative stress and inflammation in DN. This study aims to quantitatively map the global research landscape of Nrf2 in diabetic nephropathy using bibliometric methods, identifying key contributors, thematic evolution, and emerging trends with implications for drug target development.
Methods:
Bibliometric analysis was conducted using the Web of Science Core Collection database. Publications from 2000 to 2025 were systematically examined using the "bibliometrix" package in R, CiteSpace, and VOSviewer, with a focus on publication trends, countries and institutions, journal impact, and keyword development.
Results:
In total, 465 papers from authors affiliated with 647 institutions, spanning 2,413 researchers and 45 nations, have been identified as meeting the inclusion criteria. China leads in publications (TP = 321) and citations (TC = 9603). Jilin University has the most publications (n = 79). The most influential journals are Free Radical Biology and Medicine and Frontiers in Pharmacology. The keyword cluster analysis identified five main research clusters, including: (1) Oxidative Stress; (2) Cellular Processes Affected by Oxidative Stress; (3) Signalling Pathways and Fibrosis; (4) Diabetic Complications; and (5) Genetics and Signalling Mechanisms. The recent burst of keywords such as "stress" and "protects" highlights the evolving research frontiers.
Discussion:
This analysis confirms that the main contributors to this field are worthy of attention because of their contributions to major research hotspots. A noteworthy trend is that research has shifted from focusing solely on oxidative stress to encompassing integrated mechanisms such as autophagy, inflammation, and cellular protection.
Conclusion:
This analysis reveals a thematic shift from oxidative stress to autophagy and inflammation, highlighting evolving opportunities for Nrf2-targeted drug development in DN.
