Cold Atmospheric Pressure Plasma: A Novel Approach for Virus Treatment Through Reactive Oxygen and Nitrogen Species

This chapter explores the field of viral infections, transmission routes, and the potential of Cold Atmospheric Plasma (CAP) as a biomedical tool for virus inactivation. Covering historical outbreaks such as influenza, HIV/AIDS, Ebola, and the recent SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, the chapter emphasizes the diverse modes of viral transmission. It briefly explores the main stages of the viral life cycle and introduces CAP as a novel approach for virus inactivation. The discussion extends to various plasma sources, their characteristics, and the mechanisms of virus inactivation by Reactive Oxygen and Nitrogen Species (RONS) produced by CAP. CAP’s efficacy in decontaminating surfaces, air, and water, and even inactivating viruses within infected cells, has been demonstrated in numerous studies. Notable examples include CAP’s impact on SARS-CoV-2, norovirus, and hepatitis A virus. The role of RONS in disrupting viral structures is explored, offering insights into the potential of CAP as a preventive measure against viral infections. While highlighting CAP’s versatility, the chapter underscores the need for continued research, risk assessments, and guidelines to ensure safe and effective implementation across diverse applications. Overall, the ongoing research positions CAP as a promising tool in the battle against viral infections, as long as its benefits and potential risks in various contexts are carefully considered.