A groundbreaking study published in Nature has revealed that a specific type of immune cell, once considered a vital defender, can actually exacerbate persistent inflammation and tissue damage in chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps.
After nearly a decade of investigation, researchers from China's Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital identified Granzyme K (GZMK), a protein secreted by a specialized type of memory CD8+ T cell, as the key culprit behind the condition's severity.
\"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 like nasal congestion, loss of smell, and headaches. Current treatments often provide only temporary relief, with many patients experiencing recurrent episodes.
The study suggests that GZMK is a promising new drug target. Experimental models demonstrated that inhibiting GZMK significantly reduced inflammation, offering hope for more effective treatments.
\"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.\"
As researchers continue to explore this pathway, the discovery opens doors for developing therapies that could improve the quality of life for those afflicted by these chronic conditions.
Reporting contributed by Gong Zhe.
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
