Global research trends on DPP-4 inhibitors and cardiovascular outcomes: a comprehensive bibliometric analysis

Abstract

Background: Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors are oral antihyperglycemic agents commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Due to the intricate relationship between glucose regulation and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), DPP-4 inhibitors have attracted attention for their cardiovascular safety and efficacy. This bibliometric analysis aims to provide insights into the global research landscape on DPP-4 inhibitors and cardiovascular outcomes (CVOs). Methods: A bibliometric analysis was performed, using the Web of Science Core Collection. Data were analyzed using VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and Biblioshiny. Results: The United States led in publication output, followed by Japan and China. Harvard University and the University of Toronto were the leading institutions. The most influential journals were Cardiovascular Diabetology and Diabetes Obesity & Metabolism. Darren K. McGuire was the most prolific author followed by Rury R. Holman. The most commonly occurring keyword was heart failure. Cluster analysis revealed key thematic areas in the field, including “incretin-based therapy,” “dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibition,” and “cardiovascular safety.” Emerging clusters, such as “atrial fibrillation,” have gained attention in recent years, highlighting evolving areas of investigation. Conclusion: This study underscores the importance of CVOs in the research on DPP-4 inhibitors. The high frequency of keywords such as “heart failure,” along with recent terms like “mortality” and “risk,” highlights a strong focus on cardiovascular safety and complications in the literature. Our analysis reflected that most studies address these critical aspects of cardiovascular health, discussing the potential role of DPP-4 inhibitors in mitigating adverse outcomes, particularly in patients with T2DM.