Differential cytotoxicity of plasma-treated arginine in breast cancer and normal cell lines: time-dependent effects and media-driven modulation

Abstract This study evaluated the selective cytotoxicity of plasma-treated arginine (PTA) in breast cancer (MCF-7) and normal mammary epithelial (MCF-10A) cells. Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species generation in PTA correlated with initial arginine concentration. Under serum-free conditions, PTA induced acute cancer cell death, while serum-containing medium attenuated this effect. Notably, PTA suppressed MCF-7 viability for up to 72 h without harming MCF-10A, suggesting delayed oxidative stress-mediated cytotoxicity. These results underscore the therapeutic potential of PTA and highlight the importance of medium conditions and extended observation periods in plasma medicine.