On the selective killing of cold atmospheric plasma cancer treatment: Status and beyond

Compared with many chemotherapy and radiotherapy modalities, selective killing of cancer cells is a pivotal feature of cold atmospheric plasma (CAP). Understanding its underlying mechanism will build the foundation of CAP-based cancer treatment. Additionally, we provided forward-looking thinking to extend the definition of selectivity from conventional cases involving a single-cell line to a coculture case. Finally, the newly established physically based treatment strategy provides unprecedented visions to realize selectivity beyond the previously established concepts based on reactive species and direct killing effect.