A groundbreaking study published in the esteemed Nature journal has unveiled a surprising culprit behind chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps: a specific type of immune cell that, contrary to its protective role, exacerbates inflammation and tissue damage.
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 subset of memory CD8+ T cells, as the key factor contributing to persistent inflammation in these conditions.
\"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 elaborated that unlike traditional cells which release Granzyme B to combat pathogens, these unique memory CD8+ T cells secrete Granzyme K. \"Granzyme K bypasses the need for antibodies to activate the body's defense system. However, instead of safeguarding the body, it intensifies tissue damage and inflammation, worsening the condition.\"
Chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps affect millions worldwide, causing symptoms such as nasal congestion, loss of smell, and headaches. While current treatments offer temporary relief, many patients experience recurrent episodes, highlighting the need for more effective interventions.
The study's findings suggest that GZMK could be a promising new target for drug development. Experimental models demonstrated that inhibiting GZMK significantly reduced inflammation, opening the door to potential new therapies.
\"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.\"
This discovery not only sheds light on the complex mechanisms of immune responses in chronic inflammatory conditions but also offers hope to millions seeking more effective treatments.
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
