Application of SGLT2 inhibitors in kidney diseases: a bibliometric analysis

Purpose Kidney disease represents a significant public health burden. Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, initially developed as antihyperglycemic agents, have demonstrated substantial renoprotective effects and emerged as a focal point in kidney disease research. This study aims to conduct a bibliometric analysis to evaluate the current state, research priorities, and evolving trends in SGLT2 inhibitor studies within the context of kidney disease. Methods Relevant literature on “SGLT2 inhibitors” and “kidney diseases” was extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection, and the PubMed database was used to search for and supplement clinical research trend analysis. Bibliometric analyses and scientific visualizations were performed using R-bibliometrix, CiteSpace, and VOSviewer software to map the global research landscape. Results A total of 1,561 publications published between 2009 and 2025 were analyzed. The annual number of publications has increased steadily. The United States is a core contributing country in this field, with strong international collaboration networks. Key institutional contributors include the University of Toronto and the University of Groningen, while prolific authors like Heerspink HJL and Wheeler DC are key contributors in this domain. Core journals are primarily concentrated in the domains of diabetes, nephrology, cardiovascular medicine, and metabolism, with the New England Journal of Medicine exerting the greatest influence. Research focus has evolved from glycemic control to multi-organ protective effects, with study populations expanding to include patients with non-diabetic CKD. Mechanistic investigations now extend to pathways involving inflammation, oxidative stress, and ferroptosis. Conclusion SGLT2 inhibitors hold considerable promise in the management of kidney disease. Future research directions are expected to emphasize elucidating their underlying mechanisms, evaluating long-term safety, and developing personalized treatment strategies.