A groundbreaking study published in the journal Nature has unveiled that a specific type of immune cell, once thought to be a crucial defender, may in fact be exacerbating chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps. After nearly a decade of meticulous research, scientists from China's Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital have identified Granzyme K (GZMK), a protein secreted by a specialized memory CD8+ T cell, as a key contributor to persistent inflammation and tissue damage.
\"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. Unlike traditional cells that release Granzyme B, these cells secrete Granzyme K, which bypasses the need for antibodies to activate the body's defense system. However, instead of protecting, Granzyme K intensifies tissue damage and inflammation, worsening the condition.\"
Chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps affect millions worldwide, leading to symptoms such as nasal congestion, loss of smell, and headaches. While existing treatments may offer temporary relief, many patients suffer from recurrent episodes, highlighting the need for more effective solutions.
The identification of GZMK as a major player in chronic inflammation opens new avenues for treatment. Experimental models demonstrated that inhibiting GZMK significantly reduced inflammation, suggesting it as a promising target for new drugs.
\"In the future, medications designed to target Granzyme K could help control inflammation and reduce recurrence,\" said Professor Qi Hai of Tsinghua University. \"This discovery has the potential to revolutionize the treatment landscape for conditions like chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, and related allergic diseases.\"
As researchers delve deeper into the role of Granzyme K, there is hope that new therapies could significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by chronic sinus conditions.
Gong Zhe contributed to this story.
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
