Comprehensive biomedical applications of low temperature plasmas

The main component of plasma medicine is the use of low-temperature plasma (LTP) as a powerful tool for biomedical applications. LTP generates high reactivity at low temperatures and can be activated with noble gases with molecular mixtures or compressed air. LTP reactive species are quickly produced, and are a remarkably good source of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species including singlet oxygen (O2), ozone (O3), hydroxyl radicals (OH), nitrous oxide (NO), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). Its low gas temperature and highly reactive non-equilibrium chemistry make it appropriate for the alteration of inorganic surfaces and delicate biological systems. Treatment of oral biofilm-related infections, treatment of wounds and skin diseases, assistance in cancer treatment, treatment of viruses’ infections (e.g. herpes simplex), and optimization of implants surfaces are included among the extensive plasma medicine applications. Each of these applications will be discussed in this review article.
Highlights • Low-temperature plasma (LTP) has antibacterial and antifungal effects against oral biofilms. • LTP has wound healing effects and antimicrobial effects on skin diseases. • LTP has direct and indirect effects on different types of cancer. • LTP inactivates or lowers viral load of different types of viruses. • LTP improves the osseointegration to dental implant surfaces.