Plasmas attack bacterial cells on several levels
RUB researchers analyse the mechanism of action of UV
photons and radicals
As they destroy bacteria very efficiently, plasmas
constitute an alternative to chemical disinfectants and potentially to
antibiotics, as well. How they achieve this effect has been investigated by
biologists, plasma physicists and chemists at the Ruhr-Universität (RUB). Cold
atmospheric-pressure plasmas attack the prokaryote’s cell envelope, proteins
and DNA. “This is too great a challenge for the repair mechanisms and the
stress response systems of bacteria,” says Junior Professor Dr Julia Bandow,
Head of the Junior Research Group Microbial Antibiotic Research at the RUB. “In
order to develop plasmas for specific applications, for example for treating
chronic wounds or for root canal disinfection, it is important to understand
how they affect cells. Thus, undesirable side effects may be avoided right from
the start.” The team reports in the “Journal of the Royal Society Interface”.