Bibliometric Analysis of Research on Nanoplastics (NPs): Uptake, Bioaccumulation, and Cellular Internalization in Scientific Literature

Abstract

Nanoplastics, due to their small size and high surface reactivity, have emerged as critical pollutants with potential impacts on both environmental and biological systems. Their capacity for cellular internalization, bioaccumulation, and trophic transfer raises serious concerns for ecosystem and human health. The objective of this study is to conduct a comprehensive bibliometric assessment of global research trends pertaining to biological endpoints such as the uptake, cell internalization, and bioaccumulation of nanoplastics. Using the Scopus database and VOSviewer software (version 1.6.20), 638 relevant scientific articles published between 2012 and 2024 were analyzed. The number of publications has grown significantly in recent years, particularly from 2020 onward, indicating increasing scientific attention. Co-authorship among authors and among countries analyses highlights the global and interdisciplinary nature of this field, with strong contributions from China, Europe, and the United States. Keyword co-occurrence analysis reveals a strong thematic focus on oxidative stress, genotoxicity, and the interaction of nanoplastics with heavy metals, suggesting emerging interest in combined toxicity effects. Citation analysis of journals confirms that leading publications in environmental science and toxicology have been central to the dissemination of key findings. The results emphasize a growing international commitment to understanding the behavior of nanoplastics in biological systems, particularly their accumulation and potential health risks. This analysis not only maps the evolution of research but also identifies gaps of knowledge and future directions, offering a foundation for guiding subsequent investigations and informing regulatory frameworks. The use of software tools such as VOSviewer (version 1.6.20) is essential for synthesizing large volumes of scientific data, reducing subjectivity, and, thus, providing visual insights into the structure and development of this research field.