In a groundbreaking study, scientists from China's Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital have identified a specific immune cell that exacerbates chronic sinus infections and nasal polyps, conditions affecting millions worldwide.
Published in the scientific journal Nature, the research reveals that a protein called Granzyme K (GZMK), secreted by a specialized type of memory CD8+ T cell, plays a pivotal role in fueling persistent inflammation and tissue damage associated with these conditions.
\"White blood cells are like 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 akin to specialized commandos.\"
Unlike typical cells that release Granzyme B to combat pathogens, these memory CD8+ T cells secrete Granzyme K. \"Granzyme K bypasses the need for antibodies to activate the body's defense system,\" Dr. Zhang said. \"However, instead of offering protection, it intensifies tissue damage and inflammation, worsening the condition.\"
Chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps cause symptoms such as nasal congestion, loss of smell, and headaches. Current treatments often provide only temporary relief, with many patients experiencing 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.\"
The findings offer hope for more effective therapies that address the underlying causes of these chronic conditions, improving the quality of life for affected individuals.
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
