Trends in peripheral nerve injury research: a bibliometric analysis focused on molecular mechanisms

Relatively higher-quality human studies compared with other topics in this database, e.g. multiple RCTs or systematic reviews. This does not mean it is standard or approved care.

• 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)

Objective Peripheral nerve injury (PNI) remains a significant clinical challenge due to its limited recovery outcomes. Understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms is crucial for improving therapeutic efficacy. This study aims to explore the current status, research hotspots, and development trends of molecular mechanism studies in PNI through bibliometric analysis, providing valuable insights for the development of more effective treatment strategies. Methods Relevant literature on PNI and its molecular mechanisms published from January 1, 2005, to November 22, 2025, was retrieved from the Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus databases. CiteSpace and VOSviewer software were utilized to analyze research hotspots and trends, generating visual maps of countries, institutions, authors, journals, keywords, and references. Results A total of 1,799 publications were analyzed, revealing a steady annual increase in PNI-related research, with a significant surge after 2016. China emerged as the leading contributor, followed by the United States and Japan. Nantong University and Sun Yat-sen University were identified as the major contributing institutions, with Gu Xiaosong being one of the most influential authors. Key journals in the field include Neural Regeneration Research and Molecular Pain . Research hotspots include Schwann cells, neuropathic pain, inflammatory responses, non-c

Evidence level

Relatively higher-quality human studies compared with other topics in this database, e.g. multiple RCTs or systematic reviews. This does not mean it is standard or approved care.

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