Non-thermal plasma enhances endothelial cell proliferation through fibroblast growth factor-2 release

Non-thermal atmospheric pressure dielectric barrier discharge plasma is currently being developed for a wide variety of clinical applications, including skin sterilization, blood coagulation, malignant cell apoptosis, and wound healing [1]. Angiogenesis, the growth of new blood vessels from existing vessels, is critical in wound healing. Endothelial cells, which line the inner surface of blood vessels, control the angiogenic process through production, release, and response to growth factors. We hypothesized that low level plasma treatment can enhance endothelial cell proliferation through growth factor release.