Work

A bibliometric analysis of Piezo2 channel research

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background: As a pivotal mechanosensitive ion channel, Piezo2 has maintained robust research momentum over the past decade. Drawing on comprehensive bibliometric evidence, this study systematically synthesizes recent breakthroughs, prevailing controversies, and future trajectories in the field. Methods: We retrieved Piezo2-related publications from 2010 to 2026 from the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC), and conducted visual bibliometric analyses via CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and Biblioshiny to characterize publication output, collaboration networks, co-citation structures, and keyword bursts. Results: This bibliometric analysis (2010-2026) reveals a triphasic evolution of Piezo2 research: Piezo2 publication output increased progressively, from a nascent stage of fewer than 20 papers per year prior to 2016, through accelerated growth that coincided with the increased research interest following the 2021 Nobel Prize, culminating in a peak of approximately 110 papers in 2025-although bibliometric trends alone cannot establish a causal effect of the Prize on this growth. The field, anchored by Patapoutian, features divergent US-China-Europe collaborations. Co-citation highlights Coste et al.'s 2010 foundational work, while keyword bursts signal a shift from neuroscience to systemic pathophysiology. Research is transitioning to translational network regulation, heralding precision intervention. Conclusions: Bibliometric analysis confirms Piezo2 as a sustained hotspot pioneered by Patapoutian/Coste et al. US-China-Europe collaborations have driven its paradigm shift from channel characterization to multi-system regulation, foreshadowing precision therapies for pain and visceral diseases. Future work should dissect its molecular mechanisms, map interactome networks, and track clinical progress in Piezo2-linked neurological, reproductive, and surgical disorders.

Source: IBRO Neuroscience Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2026.10.007