An Indian Study Maps 20 Years of High-Impact Research on Diabetes and Sarcopenia

“For this purpose, we meticulously screened nearly 2,500 publications in the Scopus database and shortlisted 151 highly cited studies—each with over 100 citations,” said Dr. BM Gupta- a co-author. “These papers, together accounting for more than 15,000 citations, represent the intellectual foundation of our current understanding of diabetes-associated sarcopenia.”

Sarcopenia, a condition characterized by progressive muscle loss, has emerged as a serious comorbidity in individuals with diabetes. The co-existence of both conditions poses a heightened risk of metabolic dysfunction, falls, and fractures, adversely impacting the patient's quality of life. Dr. (Prof) Vaishya emphasized that this growing intersection demands deeper investigation and coordinated strategies to address the dual burden.

The analysis uncovered several notable patterns. Among the most prominent were pathophysiological studies exploring the mechanistic links between diabetes and muscle degeneration. “Many of these influential publications have delved into the biological processes connecting the two conditions, which is essential for designing effective therapeutic interventions,” Dr. Vaishya added.

Using VOSviewer software, the study also highlighted robust collaborative networks among top researchers and institutions, predominantly from the United States and Europe. These global partnerships reflect the interdisciplinary nature of this emerging field and the exchange of expertise across borders.

Another major focus area identified was the exploration of intervention strategies. High-impact studies frequently examined exercise programs, nutritional approaches, and pharmacological treatments aimed at preserving muscle mass in people with diabetes.

Key Findings:

• 151 highly cited papers received over 15,000 citations, reflecting strong academic influence.
• Most key contributors were renowned researchers and institutions from the US and Europe.
• The main focus areas were the biological link between diabetes and sarcopenia, and strategies to preserve muscle in diabetic patients.
• Network analysis showed significant collaborations, pointing to the interdisciplinary nature of the research.
• The findings stress the importance of continued global cooperation to better understand and manage these interconnected conditions.

“Our goal was to identify not just the most cited works, but the ones shaping clinical thinking and future research directions,” said Dr. (Prof.) Vaishya. “This study acts as a roadmap for researchers—whether seasoned experts or newcomers—by identifying critical themes and influential contributors.”

He stressed the ongoing need for collaborative research to uncover unresolved aspects of the diabetes-sarcopenia connection. “While we’ve made considerable progress, there’s still much to understand. A nuanced grasp of this interplay is vital for improving patient management and health outcomes,” he noted.

Mr. Mamdapur, a key author of the study, concluded, "The bibliometric study is a valuable resource that consolidates two decades of impactful research, helping pave the way for targeted solutions to manage and prevent complications arising from diabetes and sarcopenia."

Reference:

Mamdapur GMN, Gupta BM, Ahemad MN, Vaish A, Ali K S, Vaishya R. Mapping High- Impact Publications in Diabetes and Sarcopenia Research: A Bibliometric Analysis (2003-2024). Apollo Medicine. 2025;0(0). doi:10.1177/09760016251316618