Emerging Trends and Hot Spots in Tauopathy Research (2003-2025): A Bibliometric Analysis.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to systematically analyze the developmental trajectory, research landscape, and thematic evolution of tauopathy research from 2003 to 2025 using bibliometric methods.

METHODS

A total of 6752 publications retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) were analyzed using the R package bibliometrix and VOSviewer to construct bibliometric networks, including co-authorship, co-citation, and keyword co-occurrence analyses. Scimago Graphica was used to visualize international collaboration patterns.

RESULTS

The annual number of publications on tauopathy increased markedly during the period 2003-2025, reflecting sustained global research interest. The United States was the leading contributor in both publication output and citation impact, while the University of Pennsylvania emerged as a key institution. Among individual researchers, the most productive authors and influential scholars were identified through publication output and citation-based metrics. Citation analysis highlighted the enduring impact of highly cited studies, particularly those establishing key biomarker frameworks for Alzheimer's disease research.Keyword-based analysis further revealed a shift from traditional mechanistic studies toward more integrative research themes, such as tau-amyloid-β interactions, neurodegeneration, and glial involvement, alongside continued interest in tau-targeted therapeutic strategies.

CONCLUSION

This bibliometric analysis provides a quantitative and structured overview of the global tauopathy research landscape. Beyond confirming established patterns, it captures the dynamic evolution of research priorities and identifies emerging directions, offering a data-driven basis for future investigations.