Scientists have uncovered that a specific type of immune cell, once thought to be a crucial defender against infections, may actually exacerbate chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps by fueling persistent inflammation and tissue damage.
After nearly a decade of research, a team from China's Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital identified Granzyme K (GZMK), a protein secreted by a specialized form of memory CD8+ T cells, as the key culprit in worsening these conditions.
\"White blood cells are like the body's defense army, with T lymphocytes acting as elite forces,\" explained Dr. Zhang Luo from Beijing Tongren Hospital. \"Among them, memory CD8+ T cells function like specialized commandos.\"
Dr. Zhang elaborated, \"Unlike traditional cells that release Granzyme B, these cells secrete Granzyme K, which can activate the body's defense system without the need for antibodies. However, instead of protecting the body, Granzyme K intensifies tissue damage and inflammation, making the condition worse.\"
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.
The study, published in Nature, suggests that GZMK could be a promising new drug target. Experimental models showed 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 treatment for chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, and related allergic diseases.\"
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
