The purpose of this paper is to identify the most extensively studied topics with respect to the triple, quadruple and quintuple helix models developed to explain these links. The review also focusses on ascertaining future trends within this field.

Relevant documents obtained from a search in the Institute for Scientific Information’s Web of Science were submitted to bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer software.

The results of this systematic review illustrate that, despite growing concern about society and the environment, issues related to the three helixes of universities, industries and governments continue to be the most often studied. However, an additional focus on research on the quadruple and quintuple helix models has emerged in the more specialised literature. An analysis of co-citations also identified four clusters of research such as, innovation and knowledge policies; entrepreneurial universities; business innovation strategy; and triple helix stakeholders in innovation, knowledge and regional development.

Some policies are needed. Polices that undergo the mapping of the universities’ specialisations, the industry/society necessities and financial measures could foster the relations between all the stakeholders.