Effort-reward-imbalance in healthy teachers is associated with higher LPS-stimulated production and lower glucocorticoid sensitivity of interleukin-6 in vitro

► LPS-induced IL-6 production and inhibition of IL-6 production by dexamethasone in reaction to the TSST were examined in healthy teachers. ► High ERI was associated with an increase in pro-inflammatory potential and a less effective anti-inflammatory regulation by glucocorticoids. ► Alterations in immune system GC sensitivity may help to explain the increased risk for stress-related disorders in individuals with chronic work stress.