Interferon- γ and Sinusoidal Electric Fields Signal by Modulating NAD(P)H Oscillations in Polarized Neutrophils

Metabolic activity in eukaryotic cells is known to naturally oscillate. We have recently observed a 20-s period NAD(P)H oscillation in neutrophils and other polarized cells. Here we show that when polarized human neutrophils are exposed to interferon- γ or to ultra-low-frequency electric fields with periods double that of the NAD(P)H oscillation, the amplitude of the NAD(P)H oscillations increases. Furthermore, increases in NAD(P)H amplitude, whether mediated by interferon- γ or by an oscillating electric field, signals increased production of reactive oxygen metabolites. Hence, amplitude modulation of NAD(P)H oscillations suggests a novel signaling mechanism in polarized cells.