Knowledge Mapping of CircRNAs in AS Research from 2010 to 2025: Spotlight on Lipid Metabolism, Pyroptosis and Exosomes.

Background: Atherosclerosis (AS) is the leading cause of death from cardiovascular disease worldwide, involving complex inflammatory, molecular and cellular pathways as well as intercellular cross-talk. CircRNAs are highly stable, circular non-coding RNAs that function by acting as miRNA sponges, regulating transcription, and influencing protein translation. In AS research, CircRNAs have turned the spotlight onto a promising new target with significant therapeutic potential. This study aimed to elucidate academic landscape, reveal active topics and future research focus of CircRNAs in AS research. Methods: Publications on CircRNAs in AS research were retrieved from Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC). The bibliometric tools, including R, VOSviewer and Citespace, were used to conduct a scientometric analysis of 225 relevant studies. Results: This study identifies China as the primary research nations in the field of CircRNAs in AS research. However, attention must still be paid to the striking imbalance between productivity and deserved impact. The majority of current research is conducted using in vitro models. However, in vivo experiments are urgently needed to provide additional evidence for the inconclusive results obtained in vitro. The lipid infiltration theory, particularly the role of CircRNAs in regulating macrophage cholesterol efflux, has become a new research entry point for the treatment of AS. In addition, this study also identified pyroptosis and exosomes as future research focus in the field of CircRNAs in AS research. Conclusion: This bibliometric analysis synthesises the extensive evidence on CircRNAs in AS research and provides insights to guide future scientific work in this field.