Global trends and hotspots in genetic polymorphisms and osteoarthritis: A bibliometric analysis (2005–2024)

BACKGROUND: Many studies have reported the role of genetic polymorphisms in osteoarthritis (OA). While, there lacks of a comprehensive synthesis of bibliometric trends on this topic. This study aims to summarize global research progress and identify current hotspots by a bibliometric analysis. METHODS: Publications on genetic polymorphisms and OA were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database between January 1, 2005 and December 31, 2024. Bibliometric analyses were conducted to evaluate contributions from countries, institutions, authors, journals, and keywords by using CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and the Bibliometrix package. RESULTS: Overall, 1330 articles were eligible to final data analysis. The number of publications showed a gradual upward trend with some fluctuations over time. China produced the largest number of publications (n = 518), whereas Canada led in average citations per article (n = 55.3). Xi'an Jiaotong University had the highest number of publications (n = 64), whereas the University of Oxford and Rikagaku KENkyusho ranked first in total citations (n = 2847) and average citations (n = 69.7), respectively. Osteoarthritis and Cartilage was the most productive journal in terms of publication count (n = 72), whereas Arthritis and Rheumatism had the highest average citations (n = 79.9). The most active authors were predominantly from the United Kingdom. Keyword analysis identified several major research hotspots, including Mendelian randomization study, causal link, SMAD3 gene rs12901499 polymorphism, GDF5, obesity, metabolism, and inflammation. CONCLUSION: Over the past two decades, the increasing number of publications highlights the expanding attention on genetic polymorphisms in OA. China leads in terms of publication output, whereas researchers from the United Kingdom demonstrate substantial academic impact. Keyword analysis highlighted emerging research hotspots, including Mendelian randomization, causal link, SMAD3 gene rs12901499 polymorphism, GDF5, metabolism, obesity, and inflammation. These findings provide a valuable resource for researchers, guiding future studies and reducing redundant efforts in this rapidly evolving field.