Low-temperature plasmas in or in contact with air produce a variety of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) – some being the same molecules that the human body generates for signaling or antimicrobial effects. Plasma treatment of eukaryotic cells can therefore cause similar effects as an innate immune system oxidative burst. Plasma exposure can mimic an immune response to tissue damage which could initiate a natural healing response. Utilizing plasma-generated RONS for plasma-aided wound healing or plasma oncology is a promising alternative to conventional treatments. Yet, the mechanisms of action and the delivery of RONS to the target are currently still under investigation. In this talk we will explore the cocktail of active ingredients produced by plasmas; the generation and transport of the reactive species O and OH from the gas phase through a liquid to a biological sample and investigate the role that the biological sample plays as part of the reaction pathway. Using the model biological sample cysteine, the results indicate that OH/H2O2-dominated chemistry is similar to that found in redox biology, whereas modifications caused by O- dominated chemistry differ significantly. Atomic oxygen is unknown in nature whereas OH and H2O2 are well known and produced by organisms. The cocktail of RONS and variety plasma sources make it difficult generalize the impact of plasma on cells. However, the tunability of plasma and the ability to tailor RONS to desired outcomes provides a promising tool for the healing of wounds and new strategies in cancer treatment.

Co-sponsored by: MIPSE and SEM Chapters 11 & 15

Speaker(s): Prof. Katharina Stapelmann,

Room: 1003, Bldg: EECS, 1301 Beal Ave, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States, 48109, Virtual: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/301379