A bibliometric analysis on the generation of nitro radical anion: fundamentals, hotspots and trends
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The interest surrounding the generation of nitro radical anion is directly related to the chemical redox process of nitro compounds and their biological activities. Depending on the biochemical processes, the respective precursor compounds may act as drugs or contaminants based on their pharmacological action or toxic effect. The reduction of the nitro group is catalyzed in vivo by nitroreductases being converted into a nitro radical anion. This reaction can be carried out in vitro and identified by electrochemical techniques or pulse radiolysis, frequently focused on studies of the action mechanism of drugs, mainly of nitroheterocyclic and dihydropyridine compounds. To better understand the evolutionary process of this research area, a bibliometric analysis was performed using the Web of Science Core Collection combined with the VOSviewer software. This research covered the entire database up to 2025, presenting the distribution of selected documents and their annual publication evolution, as well as the relationships involving countries and research institutions. The most cited articles and fundamental literature were identified, as well as the recognition of hotspots and trends, aiming to present an intersection between organic chemistry, electrochemical studies, and medicinal chemistry. This investigation made it possible to describe the main research lines and what is under development involving the nitro radical anion generation, providing a critical map of how the stability and reactivity of this intermediate dictate the frontier between therapeutic efficacy and oxidative stress.
Source: Results in Chemistry
Institution: Universidade Federal de São Paulo
Language: English
Subfield: Organic Chemistry
Field: Chemistry
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,870
OpenAlex ID: W7221589941