Scientists in China have uncovered a surprising culprit behind chronic sinus infections and nasal polyps: a specific type of immune cell that, contrary to its usual protective role, exacerbates inflammation and tissue damage.
After nearly a decade of research, teams from Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital have identified Granzyme K (GZMK), a protein secreted by specialized memory CD8+ T cells, as a key factor in worsening 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. 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. Current treatments often provide only temporary relief, with many patients experiencing recurrent episodes.
The study, published in the journal Nature, suggests that targeting GZMK could offer a new therapeutic approach. 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 discovery has the potential to revolutionize the treatment landscape for conditions like chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, and related allergic diseases.\\"
The findings open doors to developing new drugs that could provide lasting relief for patients suffering from these chronic conditions, offering hope for improved quality of life.
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
