1. Physical Chemistry II, Chemistry and Biochemistry, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany;2. Biology of Microorganisms, Biology and Biotechnology, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany;3. Coupled Plasma‐Solid State Systems, Physics and Astronomy, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany;4. +49 234‐32‐23102+49 234‐3214620
Abstract:
Cold atmospheric‐pressure plasmas have become of increasing importance in sterilization processes especially with the growing prevalence of multi‐resistant bacteria. Albeit the potential for technological application is obvious, much less is known about the molecular mechanisms underlying bacterial inactivation. X‐jet technology separates plasma‐generated reactive particles and photons, thus allowing the investigation of their individual and joint effects on DNA. Raman spectroscopy shows that particles and photons cause different modifications in DNA single and double strands. The treatment with the combination of particles and photons does not only result in cumulative, but in synergistic effects. Profilometry confirms that etching is a minor contributor to the observed DNA damage in vitro.
Schematics of DNA oligomer treatment with cold atmospheric‐pressure plasma.
