Analysis of research trends and hot spots on COPD biomarkers from the perspective of bibliometrics

Abstract

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a chronic respiratory condition with airflow limitation, is the fourth leading global cause of death. Biomarkers are key for classifying COPD, detecting exacerbations, guiding treatment, and prognosis. This article uses bibliometrics and visualization to analyze COPD biomarker research trends, providing insights for future studies.

Methods: This study adopts a range of literature analysis tools, including HistCite, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace, to systematically analyze literature on COPD biomarkers within the Web of Science Core Collection database from 2005 to 2024.

Results: A total of 1835 papers or reviews related to COPD biomarkers are included in this study. Since 2003, the number of publications in this field has been on an upward trajectory. The United States being most influential in this field (n = 415, TLCS = 2319). Prominent institutions such as the University of British Columbia consistently deliver high-quality research results. Tal-Singer R, Sin DD, and Vestbo J have made significant contributions to COPD biomarker research. The journal American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine is the most authoritative choice for researchers in the field.This research has long focused on biomarkers associated with the inflammatory response (C-reactive protein, eosinophils, etc.), pulmonary function, induced sputum, and computed tomography. Looking ahead, biomarkers such as microRNA, exosomes, DNA methylation, and microbiomics are likely to become popular topics, particularly regarding their roles in the prognosis and mechanisms of COPD.

Conclusion: Bibliometric analysis suggests that future research on COPD biomarkers will focus on advanced fields, such as microRNA, exosomes, DNA methylation, and microbiomics.

Keywords: Bibliometrics; Biomarkers; COPD; Disease management; microRNA.