Exercise and nutrition as epigenetic regulators of gene expression: an exploratory scoping review with bibliometric analysis
Abstract
Background: Epigenetic processes are increasingly discussed as a potential interface between environmental exposures and genomic function. However, systematic integration and forward-looking synthesis of how exercise and nutrition, considered modifiable lifestyle interventions, are studied in relation to epigenetic contexts and associated health outcomes remains limited.
Objective: This study maps and summarizes the scope of existing evidence on combined interventions of exercise and nutrition in relation to epigenetic contexts and associated health outcomes using a scoping review and bibliometric analysis. It identifies research hotspots and knowledge gaps and characterizes the developmental trajectory of the field, with particular emphasis on its current exploratory stage and future research directions.
Methods: This scoping review followed the five-step framework proposed by Arksey and O'Malley. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE, and MEDLINE from database inception to 5 October 2025. Visualization analyses and strategic coordinate modeling were performed using CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and the R bibliometrix package to examine collaboration networks, thematic clusters, and research frontiers across countries, institutions, authors, and keywords.
Results: Seventeen studies involving 1,568 participants were included, with randomized controlled trials as the predominant design (13 studies, 76.5%). The findings indicate that combined…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 1,568 participants or records.
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