A groundbreaking study published in the journal Nature has unveiled a surprising culprit behind chronic sinus infections and nasal polyps: a specialized type of immune cell previously thought to be a key defender in our bodies.
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 unique subset of memory CD8+ T cells, as a major contributor to persistent inflammation and tissue damage in chronic sinusitis.
\"Think of white blood cells as the body's defense army, with T lymphocytes as its elite forces,\" explained Dr. Zhang Luo of Beijing Tongren Hospital. \"Within this group, memory CD8+ T cells act like specialized commandos.\"
However, instead of deploying the conventional Granzyme B, these \"commandos\" release Granzyme K. \"Granzyme K activates the body's defense system without the need for antibodies,\" Dr. Zhang noted. \"But rather than protecting the tissue, it exacerbates inflammation and causes more damage.\"
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 bouts.
The discovery of GZMK's role opens up new avenues for treatment. In experimental models, inhibiting GZMK significantly reduced inflammation, suggesting it could be a promising drug target.
\"Medications designed to target Granzyme K could help control inflammation and reduce recurrence,\" said Professor Qi Hai of Tsinghua University. \"This could potentially revolutionize treatment for conditions like chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, and related allergic diseases.\"
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
