Aim: To investigate the theme trends and knowledge structure of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) related literatures by using bibliometric analysis.
Materials & methods: Co-word analysis, strategic diagram and social network analysis were employed.
Results: In line with strategic diagrams, ADSC differentiation and transplantation as main undeveloped themes in 2003-2007 were partially replaced by regeneration medicine and ADSCs for myocardial infarction in 2008 to 2012, and then partially replaced by miRNAs in ADSC genetics and nerve regeneration in 2013 to 2017. Based on social network analysis, regenerative medicine/methods, myocardial infarction/therapy, as well as miRNAs/genetics, and nerve regeneration/physiology were considered the emerging hot spots in 2008 to 2012 and 2013 to 2017.
Conclusion: The undeveloped themes and emerging hot spots could be considered as new research topics.
Keywords: adipose-derived stem cells; bibliometric analysis; co-word analysis; social network analysis; strategic diagram.