How the internal clock affects the gut microbiome

Scientists have discovered that a key group of immune cells important for regulating the health of the gut microbiome is tied to circadian rhythms, which could help explain why throwing off someone’s internal clock can lead to gut issues. The cells, called group 3 innate lymphoid cells, help maintain a healthy balance among bacteria and the gut. But in two papers, research teams reported that disrupting the cells’ “clock genes” in turn skewed their ability to harmonize the microbiome and fight off infection.