Daily Hormone Cycles Influence T Cell Movement and Activity by Increasing Key Receptors

Glucocorticoid receptor signaling induces IL-7R expression in mouse T cells with a peak at midnight.

• Glucocorticoids may regulate T cell homeostasis and responses at physiological concentrations.
• The diurnal pattern of IL-7R expression supports T cell survival and affects their movement between lymph nodes, spleen, and blood.
• Increased T cell accumulation in the spleen at night may enhance immune responses to soluble antigens and bacterial infections.
• The findings suggest a role for glucocorticoids in regulating immune function according to the body's daily rhythm.

Simplified