A Bibliometric Analysis of Oxidative Stress Research in Liver Cirrhosis: Trends, Hotspots, and Future Directions

Oxidative stress is a critical factor in the pathophysiology of liver diseases, including chronic conditions and cirrhosis. However, the scientific landscape in this field remains fragmented. This bibliometric analysis aims to systematize existing research, identify major trends, and outline emerging directions. Data from the Scopus and Web of Science databases were analyzed, with a focus on peer-reviewed publications from 1991 to 2023. The key metrics included publication counts, citation analysis, keyword co-occurrence, and thematic mapping. The results revealed substantial growth in publications on oxidative stress and liver diseases over the past two decades. Key research areas include liver fibrosis, alcohol-induced liver damage, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and the therapeutic potential of antioxidants. The United States leads research output, demonstrating active collaboration with the United Kingdom, Germany, China, and Saudi Arabia. Emerging contributors, such as India, Egypt, and Brazil, are also gaining prominence, albeit on a smaller scale. Keyword analysis identified new areas of focus, such as "mitochondrial dysfunction," "antioxidant therapy," and "redox signaling." Coauthorship networks highlight the global nature of research, with an increasing trend toward international collaboration. These findings emphasize the need to develop targeted antioxidant therapies, integrate oxidative stress biomarkers into clinical practice, and advance precision medicine approaches. This analysis offers valuable insights into the trajectory of oxidative stress research in liver diseases, providing a foundation for future investigations and clinical applications.