Bibliometric and visual analysis of spinal cord injury-associated macrophages from 2002 to 2023

Frontiers in Neurology, 2023 · DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1285908 · Published: November 21, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Neurology Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

This study analyzes research trends on macrophages in spinal cord injury (SCI) from 2002-2023 using bibliometric methods. It examines publication patterns, collaborations, and research topics to understand the field's development. Macrophages, immune cells, play a key role in SCI, with two main types (M1 and M2) affecting inflammation and tissue repair. The study aims to provide insights into macrophage research in SCI and guide future therapeutic approaches. The study used data from Web of Science, analyzing publications and reviews on macrophages in SCI. It employed software like VOSviewer and CiteSpace to visualize and analyze research trends, collaborations, and hotspots.

Study Duration

21 Years

Participants

1,775 papers

Evidence Level

Systematic Review

Key Findings

1
The number of studies on macrophages in SCI has increased, particularly in the United States and China. However, there's a lack of international collaboration.
2
Key journals in this field include Experimental Neurology, Journal of Neurotrauma, and Journal of Neuroscience. Research hotspots involve macrophage polarization, microglia, astrocytes, inflammation, and neuroprotection.
3
Popovich PG is identified as a leading author in the field, with significant contributions to macrophage-associated neuroinflammation and neuroprotection after spinal cord injury.

Research Summary

This bibliometric study provides a comprehensive overview of macrophage research in SCI over the past 20 years. It identifies research trends, key contributors, and collaboration patterns in the field. The analysis highlights the increasing interest in macrophage research for SCI, particularly in the United States and China. It also reveals a need for greater international collaboration and improved research quality. Research hotspots include macrophage polarization, inflammation, microglia, and neuroprotection. The study offers valuable insights for researchers and policymakers in the field of SCI and macrophages.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Strategies

Modulating macrophage polarization and targeting specific macrophage subtypes may offer new therapeutic avenues for SCI.

Research Focus

Future research should focus on understanding the complex interactions between macrophages, microglia, and astrocytes in SCI.

Collaboration

Promoting international collaboration and improving research quality can accelerate progress in the field of macrophage-related SCI research.

Study Limitations

1
Data primarily from WoSCC database, potentially missing research from other sources.
2
Consideration limited to English literature, possibly overlooking relevant research in other languages.
3
Potential for rapid knowledge updates to limit the study's timeliness.

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