The 100 Most Cited Articles on the Applications of Stem Cells in Osteoarthritis: A Bibliometric Analysis

Abstract

Background: Stem cells have been applied in the treatment of OA, which had attracted wide attention. However, the research area is relatively extensive, and the research level is variable. In this study, we reviewed the mechanisms and clinical applications of stem cells in OA by using bibliometric analysis for the first time. We also revealed the characteristics, superior results and developmental trends in this field.Methods: The Web of Science core collection database was used to search articles related to the application of stem cells in OA. We collected the general information from the top 100 cited articles. We analyzed and evaluated the articles according to publication number, journals, institutions, countries, keywords and extended keywords.Results: The 100 most cited articles were cited from 129 to 1353 times mainly reviews and original articles. These articles were published from 2001 to 2017 and distributed evenly in America, East Asia and European countries. The United States contributed most in published number and international cooperation. The top ten institutions are mainly major universities and Duke University published a maximum of 10 articles. In terms of journals ,57 articles were published in the top ten journals. The keywords were divided into 8 categories from molecular mechanisms to clinical application.Conclusions: In our study, we found that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) which could repair articular cartilage and inhibit local inflammation, are the most widely applied in research and treatment of OA. TGF-βwas crucial during the process. Exosomes are regarded as the active ingredients in stem cell therapy for OA. Microtissue engineering will contribute to accurate and effective stem cell therapy. The findings of our study will contribute to the continuous development of research and direct the research of stem cells in OA.