Mapping the landscape of research on insulin resistance: a visualization analysis of randomized clinical trials

Abstract

Background Insulin resistance, a condition in which cells do not respond adequately to insulin, plays a crucial role in diabetes and related metabolic disorders. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) explore interventions to manage insulin resistance, contributing to evidence-based medical progress. The current study aimed to analyze the global research landscape and trends in RCTs targeting insulin resistance. Methods This study used bibliometric analysis and data visualization to examine RCT publications on insulin resistance from 2003 to 2022. The Scopus database was used due to its comprehensive coverage. The search strategy involved combining terms related to insulin resistance with RCT-related terms. The search query was validated, and core bibliometric indicators were used to analyze publication growth, origin, productivity, quality, and citations. Results Between 2003 and 2022, 1077 RCT-focused publications on insulin resistance were identified from a pool of 24,932 related articles. The growth followed two phases, with a significant increase after 2008. The USA (n = 308; 28.60%), Iran (n = 165; 15.32%), China (n = 110; 10.21%), and the UK (n = 92; 8.54%) were the main contributors. The active institutions included Tehran University of Medical Sciences (n = 38; 3.53%) and Harvard Medical School (n = 31; 2.88%). Prominent funding agencies include the National Institutes of Health (n = 88; 8.17%) and the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (n = 86; 7.99%). The top journals included the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (n = 44; 4.09%) and Diabetes Care (n = 35; 3.25%). Co-occurrence analysis revealed three clusters addressing “utilizing lipid panels as indicators of insulin resistance,” “analyzing the impact of diet composition and physical activity on insulin sensitivity among obese individuals,” and “exploring insulin resistance in cases of polycystic ovary syndrome.” Conclusions This comprehensive bibliometric analysis highlights the global research landscape and trends in RCTs targeting insulin resistance. Research on lipid panels, diet impact, and insulin resistance in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome will continue to be a hotspot. The findings offer valuable information on research priorities, international collaborations, and impactful publications. This study provides a foundation for future directorial investigations in this critical area of metabolic health.