Nanotechnology for the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's disease: A bibliometric analysis

As a progressive, irreversible neurodegenerative disease, Alzheimer's disease (AD) continues to be a serious public health problem worldwide. Currently, the most available pharmacological treatment for AD acts by alleviating and temporarily decreasing the symptoms rather than targeting the etiological mechanisms and realizing a complete cure. Nanotechnology based on its distinctive properties offers an alternative platform for the targeted diagnosis and treatment of AD. Herein, we provide a brief review of this important field through bibliometric analysis for better comprehending and promoting the development of nanotechnology in AD. In this review, we first sort out and analyze the publishing trend, countries/institutions, reference sources and research hotspots of AD-related nanotechnology by using bibliometric analysis and visualization method. Then according to the objective classification of the research field in AD assorted by bibliometric analysis, the key roles of nanotechnology in both diagnostic (biosensor and imaging) and therapeutic (nanoparticle as drug carrier and nanomedicine) aspects of AD are summarized, proceeding from the current challenges and pathogenic mechanism. In addition, we also lay stress on the potential nanotoxicity of nanomaterials in AD. At the end of the review, the perspectives for the development of nanotechnology in AD applications are highlighted.