Advances in targeted therapies by PARP inhibitors for the treatment of prostate cancer: A scientometric approach

Abstract

Introduction:

The most prevalent cancer in men is prostate cancer (PCa). One significant discovery involves attacking tumors with mutations in DNA damage repair genes via the blockage of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) enzymes. In this study, we provide a summary of the present research status of PARP inhibitors in PCa, highlighting areas of interest and emerging trends.

Method:

Our search covered the Scopus database for literature on PARP inhibitors in PCa up to the year 2023. We conducted a scientometric review using VOSviewer to evaluate the output across countries, institutions, authors, journals, references, and keywords.

Results:

The study included 1850 articles on PARP inhibitors in prostate cancer (PCa) published until 2023, with medicine, biochemistry, and pharmacology being the most represented subject areas. The United States led in publication volume (n = 800, 43.2%), followed by the United Kingdom (n = 281, 15.2%) and China (n = 198, 10.7%), and also achieved the highest total citations and H-index. A positive correlation was identified between publication volume and gross domestic product (GDP; r = 0.843, p < 0.001). Antonarakis, E.S., from the United States, ranked as the most prolific author (49 publications) and achieved the highest H-index, while Mateo, J. was the most cited. The Institute of Cancer Research emerged as the most active institution, publishing 91 articles, and the journal Cancers contributed the highest number with 99 articles. In keyword analysis, “prostate cancer” and “PARP inhibitors” were the most used terms, forming six thematic clusters. Citation and co-citation analysis highlighted the influential role of high-impact journals like New England Journal of Medicine and Journal of Clinical Oncology.

Conclusion:

The United States has taken the lead in this sector by making the largest contribution in terms of overall publications. Although international partnerships are occurring globally, there is a need for more assistance and expansion of research on PAPR inhibitors in PCa, particularly in underdeveloped nations. This study offers assistance to medical professionals, scientists, and surgery assistants on the worldwide results of PAPR inhibitors in PCa research.