PLASMA TREATMENT FOR GROWTH FACTOR RELEASE FROM CELLS AND TISSUES

摘要

Aspects of the present invention are related to methods comprising contacting an endothelial cell in an endothelial cell population with a non-thermal plasma to release an angiogenic growth factor. The released angiogenic growth factor may induce endothelial cell proliferation. In certain embodiments, the angiogenic growth factor is fibroblast growth factor-2. Preferably, the non-thermal plasma may be an atmospheric pressure dielectric barrier discharge. Additional aspects of the present invention are directed to methods for treating a disease comprising promoting angiogenesis by contacting an endothelial cell in a endothelial cell population with a non-thermal plasma to release an angiogenic growth factor. The angiogenic growth factor may induce endothelial cell proliferation. Further aspects of the present invention are directed to methods for treating a disease comprising inhibiting angiogenesis by contacting an endothelial cell in a endothelial cell population with a non-thermal plasma to reduce the number of endothelial cells in the population.