Nitric oxide plasma sources for bio-decontamination and plasma therapy

Abstract

One of the main products generated in atmospheric plasma sources is nitric oxide. The nitric oxide molecule is known as anti-bacterial agent on one hand and the molecule providing signaling and regulation biological functions on the other hand. Human body produces NO to kill invading pathogens. At the same time nitric oxide works as a primary vasoregulator and anti-hypertensive agent. NO also -regulates: inflammation, collagen production, angiogenesis and apoptosis. Exogenous NO generated by plasma devices could enhance bio-activity of NO-assisted -processes in human organism. Some applications of nitric oxide for bio-decontamination and plasma therapy will be illustrated and discussed in the paper. © 2012 Springer Science+Business Media B.V.