Self-Organized Intracellular Ultradian Rhythms Provide Direct Cell-Cell Communication

Abstract

The ultradian rhythm of protein synthesis in hepatocytes in vitro was used as a marker for direct cell-cell communication. Self-organization of the rhythms leads to cell co-operation and synchronization throughout the population. Gangliosides and/or catecholamines and Ca2+ dependent protein kinase mediated protein phosphorylation gives phase modulation for cell-cell interaction during the establishment of synchrony. Thus the pathway involves signalling of gangliosides or other calcium agonists, Ca2+ release from intracellular stores, elevation of Ca2+ cytosol protein kinase activation steps, protein phosphorylation, synchronisation of protein synthesis rates and results in common rhythm induction throughout the population.