Absorption of FD-150 into Intestinal Cells by Microplasma

Introduction of molecules into the cells is part of gene transfection or cell-mediated drug delivery. The molecules can effectively decrease side effects of the drug and increase their targeting. Air microplasma discharge was used to treat rat intestinal cells to induce absorption of fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran with a molecular weight of 150 kDa (FD-150). Absorption of FD-150 was confirmed by observation using fluorescence microscope. Efficiency of absorbance was estimated by a plate reader, and the viability of the cells was measured by a cell counter. The viability of the cells was proportional to the decrease in treatment time and the increase in treatment distance from the microplasma electrode. The absorption of FD-150 was found to be proportional to the increase in time and distance. No improvement in absorption or viability was observed during the incubation time. Cell treatment by the plasma-treated medium showed a lower absorption of FD-150 than direct treatment but the same cell viability. Concentration of ozone in the gas phase and OH radical in the liquid phase were observed.