Increased fibroblast cell proliferation and migration using atmospheric N₂/Ar micro-plasma for the stimulated release of fibroblast growth factor-7

In situ assessment of cell functions on N₂/Ar micro-plasma exposed fibroblast cells is examined to better understand the effect of atmospheric low-dose plasma treatment. The cells number increased threefolds for plasma exposure time of 5 or 10 s, followed by cell culture for 48 h. The cell coverage rate rose 20% for the same plasma exposure time, followed by cell culture for 6 or 12 h. 0.5% N₂/Ar micro-plasma exposure can particularly be used to achieve the stimulated release of FGF7 and subsequent enhancement of cells proliferation and migration. This work thus provides a potential of using micro-plasma system for cells related studies and the improvement of cutaneous wound healing.