Research trends and knowledge map construction of the mechanism of action between growth factors and osteoarthritis based on bibliometrics.

Abstract

This study conducts a bibliometric analysis to explore global research trends and knowledge structures concerning the mechanisms of growth factors (GFs) in osteoarthritis (OA) over the past two decades. Data were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection, covering publications from 2005 to 2024. Using tools including CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and Bibliometrix, we examined spatiotemporal publication patterns, collaboration networks, and thematic evolution. A total of 4785 articles from 21,847 authors across 3015 institutions and 107 countries were included. The United States and China emerged as leading contributors, accounting for 28.8% and 27.11% of total publications, respectively. Keyword and thematic analyses identified the TGF-β superfamily as the most frequently studied GF group, highlighting its central role in cartilage repair and inflammatory modulation. Other highly prevalent GFs included VEGF, IGF, and NGF, which are strongly associated with angiogenesis, chondrogenesis, and neural regulation in OA. Emerging research fronts focus on multifactorial delivery platforms, CRISPR-based gene editing, and stem cell applications, reflecting a shift from single-pathway investigations toward integrated regenerative strategies. The findings provide a systematic knowledge framework that supports future mechanistic exploration and clinical translation in GF-based OA therapy.