METABOLOMIC SIGNATURES IN THE PROGRESSION AND TREATMENT OF SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS: A BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS

Abstract

Metabolomics has emerged as a promising approach to elucidate the biochemical signatures underlying the onset, progression, and treatment response of substance use disorders (SUDs), yet the research landscape in this field remains fragmented and underexplored. To address this gap, this study applies a bibliometric analysis to map and evaluate the global research trends on metabolomic signatures in SUDs, with a focus on their role in therapeutic development. Data were collected through Scopus advanced searching using the keywords “metabolomic,” “signature,” “substance use disorder,” and “treatment,” yielding a total of 1,214 publications. The dataset was processed and harmonized using OpenRefine, analyzed through the Scopus Analyzer for descriptive statistics and trends, and visualized using VOSviewer to generate co-authorship, co-citation, and keyword co-occurrence networks. The results highlight a consistent upward trend in publications over the past decade, with significant contributions concentrated in high-income countries, particularly the United States, China, and European nations. Keyword mapping revealed research hotspots clustered around biomarker discovery, neurobiological mechanisms, and personalized treatment strategies, while co-authorship networks showed a growing yet fragmented collaboration among multidisciplinary teams. Citation analyses identified influential authors and journals driving the field, underscoring the translational potential of metabolomics in bridging laboratory findings with clinical interventions. Thisbibliometric evidence suggests that metabolomic profiling is increasingly recognized as a critical tool for advancing precision medicine approaches in SUDs, though stronger international  collaboration and integration with pharmacological research remain needed. Overall, the study provides a comprehensive overview of the intellectual structure and emerging directions in this domain, offering valuable insights for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers working toward improved treatment outcomes in substance use disorders.