Visualization and Bibliometric Analysis of Extracellular Vesicles in Cartilage Regeneration from 2013 to 2023

Abstract Purpose: This study aims to elucidate emerging trends, dynamic advancements, and research focal points in exosome-mediated repair and regeneration of cartilage damage over the past decade, employing a visualization approach. Methods: A total of 300 research records focusing on the utilization of exosomes in cartilage damage repair and regeneration were systematically gathered from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database spanning the years 2013 to 2023. Utilizing R language, VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and GraphpadPrism software, we conducted analyses on the general features, historical progression, literature, and keywords of this research domain. Ultimately, we predicted the research focal points and latest trends in the application of exosomes for cartilage defect repair and regeneration. Results: The study amassed a total of 300 articles, revealing a steady increase in publications on exosome application in cartilage repair and regeneration over the years. Significantly, contributions from researchers in China, the USA, and Italy have been pivotal in shaping this field. Keywords clustered into nine distinct research subareas, encompassing mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), osteochondral repair, runx2, drug delivery, mesenchymal stromal cells, unconventional secretion, biological membranes, and regenerative medicine. Notably, keywords such as "osteochondral repair," "runx2," and "drug delivery" featured prominently between 2013 and 2023. Conclusion: Through a comprehensive review of 300 publications, this bibliometric study provides a detailed overview of exosome-related research in cartilage damage repair and regeneration from 2013 to 2023. The findings contribute to the construction of a knowledge map, illustrating the evolving landscape in this domain. Identifying current trends and potential hotspots, this study offers valuable insights for future researchers in the field.