After nearly a decade of research, scientists from China's Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital have discovered that a specific type of immune cell, previously thought to be a vital defender, can actually exacerbate chronic sinus infections and nasal polyps.
Published in the journal Nature, the study reveals that Granzyme K (GZMK), a protein secreted by a specialized type of memory CD8+ T cell, fuels persistent inflammation and tissue damage in chronic sinusitis.
\"White blood cells can be seen as the body's defense army, with T lymphocytes serving as its elite forces,\" explained Dr. Zhang Luo from Beijing Tongren Hospital. \"Among them, memory CD8+ T cells are like specialized commandos.\"
Dr. Zhang noted that unlike traditional cells that release Granzyme B, these particular memory CD8+ T cells secrete Granzyme K. \"Granzyme K bypasses the need for antibodies to activate the body's defense system. However, instead of protecting, it intensifies tissue damage and inflammation, worsening the condition,\" he said.
Chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps affect millions worldwide, leading to symptoms such as nasal congestion, loss of smell, and headaches. While current treatments offer temporary relief, many patients experience recurrent episodes.
The discovery of GZMK's role opens new avenues for treatment. Experimental models demonstrated that inhibiting GZMK significantly reduced inflammation.
\"In the future, medications designed to target Granzyme K could help control inflammation and reduce recurrence,\" said Professor Qi Hai of Tsinghua University. \"This could potentially revolutionize the treatment landscape for conditions like chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, and related allergic diseases.\"
(Gong Zhe contributed to this story.)
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
