The use of artificial intelligence in scientific research: where is the line between plagiarism and academic integrity?

Abstract

Objective: Analyze the impacts of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on scientific writing, exploring both its benefits and the risks associated with its indiscriminate use. Methods: This is an integrative literature review. The search was conducted between February and May 2025 in the PubMed database, using the descriptors “Artificial Intelligence,” “Plagiarism,” “Academic Integrity,” and “Scientific Research.” Articles published between 2022 and 2025 in Portuguese, English, and Spanish that directly or indirectly addressed the use of AI in scientific production were included. Results: The seven analyzed articles were categorized into two main themes: (1) ethical impacts of AI use, such as plagiarism, data fabrication, and compromised authorship; (2) proposals for guidelines and principles for the responsible use of AI in scientific writing. The authors agree on the need for human supervision, transparency in AI use, and the development of editorial and institutional policies. Final considerations: Generative AI tools can enhance scientific writing by offering technical support and efficiency, but they do not replace critical thinking or research ethics. Their responsible use requires clear guidelines, transparency, and institutional policies to mitigate risks such as plagiarism, bias, and misinformation.