Trends in Gelatin Molecular Weight Research: A Scientometric Approach

Gelatin, a natural polymer derived from collagen, exhibits key physicochemical and rheological properties that are largely dependent on its molecular weight, influencing its functionality and applications in sectors such as food, biomedicine, and pharmaceuticals. Despite numerous studies on molecular weight, measurement methods, and their relationship with these properties, no comprehensive systematic review has been reported that compiles and analyzes the main contributions in this field, facilitating an understanding of the current state of research. To address this issue, a scientometric analysis was conducted using academic databases such as Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus. Search equations were applied to gather relevant information, integrating the records into a single dataset. The methodology consisted of two phases: first, a quantitative mapping analyzed scientific production by country, journal, and author, providing a comprehensive view of the contributions and their geographic scope. In the second phase, the Tree of Science metaphor was used to identify the main theoretical contributions. This historical approach allowed us to examine the evolution of molecular weight studies, measurement methodologies, and their relationship to the properties and applications of gelatin. Key subfields were identified, such as the use of gelatins from alternative sources in biomedical applications, the development of biomaterials, and the influence of proteases on molecular weight modification. These findings offer valuable information for future research and industrial applications.