Dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) mediated plasma is also known as cold plasma or atmospheric plasma. Recently, cold plasma has been shown to cause electroporation, i.e., the introduction of macromolecules into biological cells using electrical means. A portable DBD based cold plasma source along with innovative electrode and sample holding arrangement for achieving electro-transformation has been developed.

ADVANTAGES OF THE SYSTEM

• This system is based on novel technology and is the first indigenous technology
• The system is substantially cheaper compared to available commercial systems
• The device operates on line voltage and does not require complex signal shaping electronics
• Electroporation is carried in a non-contact mode and the sample preparation protocol is simpler
• Electroporation does not require specialized sample holders

APPLICATIONS

• Electroporation of bacterial cells with plasmids
• Localized delivery of therapeutic agents or drugs
• Transfection of mammalian cells to genetically modify cell lines

Dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) mediated plasma is also known as cold plasma or atmospheric plasma. Cold plasma exposure was demonstrated to kill microbes, primarily through membrane damage. Based on this property, a number of devices that are useful for surface sterilization have been developed. Recently, cold plasma has been shown to cause electroporation, i.e., the introduction of macromolecules into biological cells using electrical means. This process is also called electro-transformation. A portable DBD based cold plasma source along with innovative electrode and sample holding arrangement for achieving electro-transformation has been developed. This device facilitates electroporation of bacterial cells with high-voltage electrical signals. This technology is substantially cheaper compared to other imported systems. The instrument has been tested using different bacterial plasmid and different types of E. coli cells and was found to be reproducible.

MAIN COMPONENTS OF THE SYSTEM

• High Voltage Power Supply, 6 kV_rms
• Cable / connector
• Plasma Electrode Arrangement
• Reaction chamber / Sample holder
• Argon Gas cylinder (portable) with Gas flow monitor / meter

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

1. The system operates on a 230 V AC (5 Amp) mains power supply
2. The out-put of the power supply ranges from 100 to 7000 V, AC
3. Dimensions (mm) of the power supply [WxHxD] : 250*150*300 ; Weight: ~7.5 kg
4. Sample holder:
   
   a. Vertical displacement: 50 mm
   b. Holder base ~ 300 X 300 mm
   
   
5. Argon cylinder (a portable cylinder is preferable)
6. Important Parameters to be set:
   
   a. Voltage across the electrodes: 3500 to 6000 V
   b. Distance between the electrodes: 2 to 10 mm
   c. Gas flow-rate: control in the range of ~100 to 200 ml per minute. 
   

INFRASTRUCTURE

• An electrical workshop having component assembly, SMD workbench & Instrument rack and high-voltage testing facility
• 230 Volts, 5 Ampere, Single Phase Power supply
• Access to a mechanical workshop having lathe and other machining equipment
  

MANPOWER

• One person having Diploma in Electronics Engineering and one semi-skilled worker

SPACE

• One work bench equivalent space (4?X6?) is required for assembly and testing

ADVANTAGES OF THE SYSTEM

• This system is based on novel technology and is the first indigenous technology
• The system is substantially cheaper compared to available commercial systems
• The device operates on line voltage and does not require complex signal shaping electronics
• Electroporation is carried in a non-contact mode and the sample preparation protocol is simpler
• Electroporation does not require specialized sample holders

APPLICATIONS

• Electroporation of bacterial cells with plasmids
• Localized delivery of therapeutic agents or drugs
• Transfection of mammalian cells to genetically modify cell lines