Novel strategies for combatting methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) through cold atmospheric plasma treatment and decontamination

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) poses a serious public health risk due to its antibiotic resistance. Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) has emerged as a promising nonthermal, dry decontamination technology capable of inactivating MRSA and other bacteria on contaminated surfaces and personal protective equipment (PPE). This study evaluates the bactericidal efficacy of CAP for decontaminating MRSA-infected surfaces and PPE, characterizes its reactive species generation, and assesses its decontamination potential while examining the structural and mechanistic effects of CAP on MRSA. CAP generates reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) that disrupt bacterial membranes, damage DNA, and interfere with metabolic pathways. Using a 3D-printer integrated CAP system, precise control of treatment parameters was achieved. Growth kinetic assays showed a significant reduction in bacterial optical density (OD) post-CAP treatment, with a 5-log reduction and 99.999% decrease in bacterial count. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed severe cellular damage, including membrane blebbing and structural disruption. A 5×1 multiplasma jet array ensured consistent delivery of reactive species, with characterization through Optical Emission Spectroscopy (OES), Intensified Charge-Coupled Device (ICCD) imaging, and Rayleigh microwave scattering (RMS). CAP offers a rapid and efficient decontamination method, ideal for inaccessible PPE areas without introducing moisture. Although optimization and standardization challenges remain, CAP holds promise as an effective tool in decontamination, infection control strategies, reducing transmission, and addressing MRSA's serious clinical and global public health impact.