Abstract
BACKGROUND: Numerous studies have demonstrated a link between epigenetics and CRC. However, there has been no systematic analysis or visualization of relevant publications using bibliometrics. METHODS: 839 publications obtained from the Web of Science Core (WoSCC) were systematically analyzed using CiteSpace and VOSviewer software. RESULTS: The results show that the countries, institutions, and authors with the most published articles are the United States, Harvard University, and Ogino and Shuji, respectively. SEPT9 is a blood test for the early detection of colorectal cancer. Vitamin D and gut microbiota mediate colorectal cancer and epigenetics, and probiotics may reduce colorectal cancer-related symptoms. We summarize the specific epigenetic mechanisms of CRC and the current existence and potential epigenetic drugs associated with these mechanisms. It is closely integrated with clinical practice, and the possible research directions and challenges in the future are proposed. CONCLUSION: This study reviews the current research trends and hotspots in CRC and epigenetics, which can promote the development of this field and provide references for researchers in this field.