Trends and evolution in the scientific research of Sechium edule (Jacq.) Swartz

Objective: Analyze the scientific production on Sechium edule by using bibliometric and computer tools to identify trends about its research, as well as the key factors and areas of opportunity that require scientific focus Design/methodology/approach: The "bibliometrix" package was used to extract, debug and select publications from the Scopus platform. The bibliometric analysis was divided into several sections: the first included an analysis of authors (publication count, H-index); analysis of keywords, as well as trends and areas of opportunity. Results: It has found 385 documents from 1976 to 2024, with an annual growth rate of 5.12%, 1448 researchers involved, 13,411 references, 12.2 average articles per year published and an average citation of 15.46. 1248 keywords were found, Mexico is the country with the highest number of corresponding authors and with the highest scientific productivity. Limitations on study/implications: Publications that were not in Scopus or that are in other indexing times were discarded. Findings/conclusions: Current trends are related to biomedical, pharmaceutical applications through the study of cucurbitacins. Genetic and molecular issues are gaining momentum and more research related to bioprospecting is expected. This information is essential for planning future research and ensuring the continuous and cohesive advancement of the scientific knowledge of chayote.