Knowledge mapping of plasmacytoid dendritic cells in systemic lupus erythematosus: a bibliometric analysis (2004-2023).

Background: Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) are a specialized subset of dendritic cells known for their ability to produce type I interferon (IFN I), contributing to antiviral defense and the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In SLE patients, pDCs are excessively activated, leading to overproduction of IFN-α, which plays a critical role in disease progression. However, no bibliometric analysis has been conducted on the relationship between pDCs and SLE. This study aims to map the knowledge structure and trends in research on pDCs in SLE through bibliometric analysis.

Methods: We analyzed publications related to pDCs in SLE from 2004 to 2023 using the Web of Science Core Collection. Data were analyzed and visualized with VOSviewers, CiteSpace, and the R package bibliometrix, offering a comprehensive view of the research landscape.

Results: The analysis included 1086 articles from 57 countries, with the USA leading in publication volume. Major contributing institutions include Uppsala University, University of Michigan, and Baylor Institute for Immunology Research. Among the 565 authors, Ronnblom Lars was the most prolific, while Elkon Keith B ranked highest in terms of network centrality. Key research themes focus on pDC mechanisms in SLE development and emerging therapeutic strategies. Trending topics include "anifrolumab," "mortality," and "population."

Conclusion: This bibliometric study provides a thorough overview of research trends on pDCs in SLE, identifying recent advances and key areas of interest, offering valuable insight for future research directions.

Key Points: • pDCs play a crucial role in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) through the overproduction of type I interferon (IFN-α). • This is the first bibliometric analysis mapping the research landscape of pDCs in SLE from 2004 to 2023. • Emerging research focuses on therapeutic strategies, including trending topics like "anifrolumab" and "mortality" in SLE. • This study offers valuable insights into key research themes and trends, guiding future investigations on pDCs in SLE.