A groundbreaking study published in the scientific journal Nature has uncovered that a specific type of immune cell, once thought to be a critical defender, may actually exacerbate chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps.
After nearly a decade of research, scientists from Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital in China identified Granzyme K (GZMK), a protein secreted by a specialized type of memory CD8+ T cell, as a key contributor to persistent inflammation and tissue damage in patients suffering from 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 noted that unlike traditional cells that release Granzyme B, these memory CD8+ T cells secrete Granzyme K. \"This protein 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,\" he said.
Chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps affect millions globally, 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 suggests that targeting GZMK could be a promising new therapeutic approach. Experimental models showed that inhibiting GZMK significantly reduced inflammation, offering hope for more effective long-term 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.\"
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
