From synapse to strategy: a bibliometric map of ionotropic glutamate receptors in depression.
Yunsheng Liu, Rongde Zhong, Fenyong Yao, Huafu Zhao, Yuyan Wang, Changjian Li, Jinfang Zhang, Zengwei Kou
Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's archives of pharmacology April 28, 2026 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-026-05353-2 via PubMed
Summary
Since 1975, research on ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs) in depression has grown 7.31% annually, with the United States and China leading publication output. The field has shifted from basic synaptic mechanisms to clinical applications, particularly NMDA receptors and treatment-resistant depression. Ketamine therapy exemplifies a successful translation from preclinical models to rapid-acting antidepressants. A bibliometric analysis of 6,843 publications maps this evolution, identifies key collaborative networks, and highlights knowledge gaps to guide future development of next-generation antidepressants.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Bibliometric analysis Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 6,843 |
| Population | Publications on ionotropic glutamate receptors in depression |
| Topics | Depression Ketamine |
| Keywords | Antidepressive agents Bibliometrics Ionotropic glutamate receptors |
| Key finding | Research on ionotropic glutamate receptors in depression has shifted from basic synaptic mechanisms to clinical innovations, with NMDA receptors and treatment-resistant depression as primary hotspots. |
Abstract
Depression is a leading global health burden increasingly linked to dysregulation in glutamatergic signaling. Ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs), including NMDA, AMPA, and kainate subtypes, have emerged as pivotal therapeutic targets. However, the rapid expansion of literature has led to a fragmented research landscape, creating an urgent need for a structured overview. This study aims to provide a comprehensive bibliometric analysis to map the evolution, knowledge hubs, and emerging frontiers of iGluR research in depression.We retrieved 6,843 publications (1975-2025) from Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus, utilizing CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and Bibliometrix for visualization and trend analysis. Analysis revealed a 7.31% annual growth rate, with the United States and China leading global productivity. Research has transitioned from basic synaptic transmission mechanisms to clinical innovations, with "NMDA receptor" and "treatment-resistant depression" identified as primary hotspots. These findings provide a quantitative framework that clarifies the shift from preclinical models to rapid-acting antidepressant discovery. Here we show that bibliometric mapping provides a coherent picture of how iGluRs research in depression has evolved. The prominence of ketamine therapy highlights a successful translational trajectory. By identifying key collaborative networks and knowledge gaps, this study provides a strategic roadmap to guide future mechanistic work and the development of next-generation rapidly acting antidepressants.