Exploring research advances and future trends in drug resistance in multiple myeloma: A comprehensive bibliometric analysis.

INTRODUCTION

This bibliometric analysis aims to explore global trends, research hotspots, and future directions in multidrug resistance of multiple myeloma (MM), providing insights for overcoming resistance mechanisms and optimizing therapeutic strategies.

METHODS

We analyzed 3300 publications indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection (2015-2024) using CiteSpace and VOSviewer. Multidimensional evaluations of countries/regions, institutions, authors, journals, and keywords were conducted, supplemented by visual network mapping to elucidate research dynamics and collaborative patterns.

RESULTS

Annual MM drug resistance publications exhibited sustained growth, with a notable surge during 2022 to 2024. The United States (36.4%) and China (28.6%) dominated research output, while Harvard Medical School emerged as the most influential institution. Keyword clustering identified 5 core research domains: pharmacological interventions and therapies, resistance mechanisms and molecular pathways, cellular drug resistance mechanisms, tumor microenvironment and immunoregulation, and fundamental biology and diagnostics. Current research focuses on microenvironment-mediated resistance mechanisms and novel immunotherapies.

CONCLUSION

This study delineates the intellectual landscape of MM drug resistance research, emphasizing key contributors, evolving priorities, and emerging frontiers. The findings offer actionable intelligence for guiding future investigations and evidence-based policymaking, potentially accelerating the development of optimized therapeutic approaches for chemoresistant MM.