Insights Into Genome-Wide Association Study for Diabetes: A Bibliometric and Visual Analysis From 2001 to 2021

Hundreds of research and review articles concerning genome-wide association study (GWAS) in diabetes have been published in the last two decades. We aimed to evaluate the hotspots and future trends in GWAS in diabetes research through bibliometric analysis. Accordingly, 567 research and review articles published between 2001 and 2021 were included. A rising trend was noted in the annual number of publications and citations on GWAS in diabetes during this period. Harvard University and Harvard Medical School have played leading roles in genome research. Hotspot analyses indicated that DNA methylation and genetic variation, especially in type 2 diabetes mellitus, are likely to remain the research hotspots. Moreover, the identification of genetic phenotypes associated with adiposity, metabolic memory, pancreatic islet, and inflammation is the leading trend in this research field. Through this review, we provide predictions on the main research trends in the future so as to shed light on new directions and ideas for further investigations on the genetic etiology of diabetes for its prevention and treatment.

Automated summary

This article evaluated the hotspots and future trends in GWAS research in diabetes through bibliometric analysis. The findings showed an increasing trend in the annual number of publications and citations in GWAS in diabetes over the past two decades. Harvard University and Harvard Medical School have played significant roles in genome research. The study predicted that DNA methylation and genetic variation, especially in type 2 diabetes, are likely to remain the research hotspots.