Small molecules in lung cancer targeted therapy: a two-decade bibliometric analysis and visualization (2005–2024)

Abstract Purpose In this study, a bibliometric analysis was performed to systematically characterize the research landscape of small molecule compounds for lung cancer (LC) treatment and identify emerging trends. Methods Data were extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection. The bibliometric software tools VOSviewer and CiteSpace were used to analyze publication trends, institutional collaboration networks, author contributions, and keyword co-occurrence patterns. Additionally, the patent portfolios of high-output authors and highly cited researchers were quantified. Results Annual publications have exhibited steady growth since 2011, with Asian countries (notably China) dominating output (80% of the top 10 institutions) and the USA leading in citation impact (52.79 average citations/publication). The patent analysis revealed a preponderant focus on drug synthesis methodologies, with high-output authors showing significant patent productivity. The co-occurrence analysis identified shifting research frontiers: early emphasis on epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors transitioned post-2016 to emerging themes, including molecular docking, cancer metabolism, and migration. Conclusion This study highlights the translational emphasis of small molecule research in LC. However, significant geographical disparities exist, with Asian countries dominating publication output and the USA maintaining preeminence in citation impact. Future research should prioritize overcoming acquired resistance, leveraging natural product optimization, drug repurposing, advancing delivery systems, and exploring combination therapies.