Immunohistochemical evidence that electric currents increase periosteal cell cyclic nucleotide levels in feline alveolar bone in vivo

Abstract Applications of constant direct currents (15 ± 2 μA ) to cat gingiva (non-invasively for 1–7 days) caused alterations in the immunohistochemical staining pattern of alveolar bone periosteal cells for cAMP and cGMP. In general, the staining intensity increased and the intracellular distribution pattern was changed. Additionally, exposure to electric currents produced increases in the number of cells intensely stained for cAMP and cGMP in the periosteum. It thus appears that the effect of electricity on bone cells in vivo is mediated by cyclic nucleotides.