Alternative splicing in cardiovascular disease: a visualized bibliometric analysis of global research trends (1996-2024)

Background Alternative splicing (AS) is a critical regulatory mechanism in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). However, a comprehensive bibliometric overview of this rapidly evolving field is lacking. This study aimed to address this gap by providing the first systematic map of the research landscape. Methods Publications on AS and CVDs (1996–2024) were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection. Analyses were performed using VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and the R package "bibliometrix" for computational mapping and network visualization, supplemented by Microsoft Excel and Charticulator. Results From 1996 to 2024, 1,712 pertinent publications were identified, involving 9,665 authors from 200 institutions across 66 countries/regions. The United States, China, and Germany led in productivity, with a strong US–China collaborative link. The University of California system was the most productive institution, and Thomas A. Cooper was the leading author. Core journals included the Journal of Biological Chemistry , Gene , and Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications . Research hotspots centered on RNA-binding proteins, heart failure, dilated cardiomyopathy, cardiac hypertrophy, and oxidative stress. Conclusion This study delivers the first systematic bibliometric assessment of the AS in CVDs field. Future efforts should prioritize elucidating the mechanistic basis of splicing dysregulation and translating these insights into targeted therapies to meet unmet needs in cardiovascular clinical practice.