Treatment of protein using oxygen plasma produced by RF discharge

Abstract

Removal of proteins from the surface of medical equipments are attempted using oxygen plasma produced by RF discharge. FIIR spectra indicate that the bonds of C-H and N-H in the casein protein are reduced after irradiation of oxygen plasma. Also, the second order structure of a protein such as a-helix and ~-sheet are modified by the oxygen plasma. Complete removal of protein as remnants on the medical equipments requires several hours avoiding the damage to medical equipments.