Microbiome and cancer immunotherapy: a bibliometric analysis

Objective To systematically analyze the global research landscape, collaboration patterns, knowledge flow pathways, and frontier trends in the synergistic effects between the microbiome and cancer immunotherapy. Methods A systematic bibliometric analysis of publications on the synergistic effects between the microbiome and cancer immunotherapy (2010–2026) was performed using the Web of Science Core Collection. After deduplication, 3,058 publications were analyzed with CiteSpace 6.3.1 (co-citation, keyword burst, timeline), VOSviewer 1.6.19 (co-authorship, co-occurrence networks), and bibliometrix R package 4.4.1 (dual-map overlay, knowledge flow). Results Annual publications grew at an average rate of 23.0%, reaching 715 in 2025. China and the United States contributed 60.1% of global output, with MD Anderson Cancer Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and Paris-Saclay University serving as core collaboration hubs. Three major academic lineages (fundamental mechanisms, clinical translation, tumor-specific research) and three knowledge flow pathways (mathematical modeling → molecular genetics; clinical medicine → molecular biology; ecology → molecular biology) were identified, shaping distinct research paradigms. Hotspots evolved from “gut microbiota–ICIs” toward “oral microbiota,” “engineered bacteria,” and “precision prediction.” Conclusion The field has transitioned from mechanistic exploration to precision intervention, with multidisciplinary integration and clinical translation as future priorities. The identified knowledge flow pathways and academic lineages provide a framework for understanding the intellectual structure of this rapidly evolving domain.