Bibliometric analysis of research on neurodegenerative diseases and single-cell RNA sequencing: Opportunities and challenges

Neurodegeneration, characterized by the progressive deterioration in neuronal structure or function, presents an elusive mechanism. The use of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology in the clinic is becoming increasingly prevalent in recent decades. This technology offers unparalleled cell-level insights into neurodegenerative diseases, establishing itself as a potent tool for elucidating these diseases underlying mechanisms. Here, we made a deep investigation for scRNA-seq research in neurodegenerative diseases using bibliometric analysis from 2009 to 2022. We observed a robust upward trajectory in the number of publications on this subject. The United States stood out as the principal contributor to this expanding field. Specifically, the University of California System exhibited notable research prowess in this field. Alzheimer disease and Parkinson disease were the diseases most frequently investigated. Key research hotspots include the creation of a molecular brain atlas and identification of vulnerable neuronal subpopulations and potential therapeutic targets at the transcriptomic level.