CiteSpace-based Knowledge Graph Visualization of Mendelian Randomization Studies in Cancer

Abstract Objective This study aims to perform a visual analysis of the literature on Mendelian randomization in the field of cancer, summarizing its developmental trajectory, current research status, and hot topics to provide references for future research directions. Methods Literature on Mendelian randomization studies in the field of cancer was retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection up until April 18, 2024. The analysis and visualization of publication trends, author and institutional collaboration networks, keyword co-occurrence, clustering, timeline graphs, and burst terms were conducted using CiteSpace6.3.R1. Results A total of 964 English-language articles were included, showing an increasing trend in the number of articles using MR for cancer-related research, with a sharp rise in recent years. Despite the large volume of publications, there has not yet been a large-scale formation of collaborative groups among authors and institutions. The research hotspots include cancers such as breast cancer, colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, and lung cancer. Discussions on key risk factors include macro indicators such as BMI, hematological micro indicators such as sex hormones, symptoms such as back pain, and other diseases such as obesity. Research methods are often used in conjunction with meta-analysis. Conclusion The field of cancer Mendelian randomization research is heating up, with research continuously deepening and improving. Future efforts should strengthen collaboration and communication between researchers and institutions, delve deeper into current research hotspots, and provide research directions and theoretical bases for disease prevention and the development of new therapies.