Global research trends on exosomes in atherosclerosis: a bibliometric and scientometric analysis (2004-2025)

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Background Exosomes play multifaceted roles in atherosclerosis, contributing to vascular inflammation, immune regulation, and tissue repair. This duality has drawn attention to their potential clinical utility, both as diagnostic indicators and as novel therapeutic avenues. However, despite the rapid expansion of research, a comprehensive scientometric overview of this field remains lacking. Methods From 2004 to July 29, 2025, publications related to exosomes and atherosclerosis were screened in the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) and Scopus. After deduplication, 1,179 records (964 articles, 215 reviews) were included. Bibliometric analyses were conducted using CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and the bibliometrix R package. Indicators examined included publication trends, global distribution, institutional and author contributions, co-citation patterns, and keyword evolution. Results Publications on exosomes in atherosclerosis have risen sharply since 2015, consistent with Price's Law. China contributes the largest volume, while the United States shows stronger international collaboration. Central South University, Capital Medical University, and Harvard University rank among the most productive institutions. Key contributors include Elena Aikawa and Lijun Yuan. Major publication venues are the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine, and

Evidence level

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

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