Emerging applications of atmospheric cold plasmas in medical and dentistry fields

• Grant number: 23/02410-3
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Visiting Researcher Grant - Brazil
• Start date: June 01, 2023
• End date: May 31, 2024
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Dentistry
• Principal Investigator: Rodrigo Savio Pessoa
• Grantee: Rodrigo Savio Pessoa
• Visiting researcher: Clodomiro Alves Junior
• Host Institution: Divisão de Ciências Fundamentais (IEF). Instituto Tecnológico de Aeronáutica (ITA). Ministério da Defesa (Brasil). São José dos Campos , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 19/05856-7 - Use of low temperature atmospheric pressure plasma in dentistry: from laboratory bench to clinics, AP.TEM

Abstract

This project aims to bring the experienced researcher, Dr. Clodomiro Alves Junior, to collaborate in the development of ongoing projects in the area of non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma (NTAPP), mainly in dentistry and construction of plasma prototypes for use in different clinical protocols (sterilization, healing, increase of wetting properties, etc.). This researcher has extensive experience in the plasma field, including in NTAPP, where he has been conducting research since 2008. His professional trajectory ranges from national pioneering (1985-present) in the technique of plasma-assisted thermochemical treatment to applications of PNTPA in health, agriculture, and environment (2008-present). His participation in the team will be of fundamental importance in advancing our innovation research in areas such as medicine and dentistry, seeking to understand the plasma-oral tissue interaction mechanisms that lead to improved antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and tissue repair-inducing properties, in addition to its low toxicity. The plasma research group at ITA and UNESP-São José dos Campos/Guaratinguetá has been conducting research in various lines of plasma technology, including the study and characterization of atmospheric plasmas in a biological environment, the generation and characterization of plasma-activated liquids for applications in dentistry, and the application of atmospheric plasma techniques in the synthesis of nanostructured materials. With the collaboration of Professor Clodomiro Alves Junior, it is expected to further strengthen the group's objectives and contribute to high-quality scientific research in the country. The potential of plasma in dentistry is promising, but it is necessary to overcome challenges and continue research to ensure its safety and efficacy. In addition, the group is focused on human resource development to further drive the development of plasma technology in Brazil. (AU)