Evaluation of Cold Atmospheric‐Pressure Plasma Effects on DNA Endoreplication in Callosobruchus maculatus: A Rapid Flow Cytometry‐Based Study

Abstract

This study investigates the chromosomal changes in Callosobruchus maculatus utilizing flow cytometry analysis following treatment with high‐voltage modified air‐based cold atmospheric‐pressure plasma (CAP) generated in a contained dielectric barrier discharge reactor. C. maculatus, a significant bio‐contaminant in cowpea legumes with potential infestation in other legumes such as chickpeas and lentils, was the focus of this study. CAP treatment has garnered attention as a potential control method for stored product pests, demonstrating high mortalities in various insect species. However, the underlying mechanism of action remains elusive. Our investigation, using a flow cytometry‐based approach, reveals the absence of increased DNA ploidy in CAP‐treated C. maculatus. This finding contributes to the ongoing exploration of the efficacy and mechanisms underlying cold plasma treatment in pest management strategies.