Circadian rhythms in leukocyte trafficking

Abstract

A broad range of immunological processes oscillates over the course of a day. Recent findings have identified a molecular basis for the circadian clock in the regulation of the immune system. These rhythms manifest themselves in oscillatory behavior of immune cells and proinflammatory mediators, which causes a time-dependent sensitivity in the reaction to pathogens. This rhythmicity impacts disease manifestations and severity and provides an option for therapy that incorporates chronopharmacological considerations. This review will focus on the current knowledge and relevance of rhythmic immune cell trafficking. It will provide an overview of the molecular clock machinery and its interrelations with leukocyte migration and the immune response.