In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have identified a specific immune cell that intensifies inflammation and tissue damage in chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps, conditions that affect millions worldwide. The study, published in Nature, reveals that a type of memory CD8+ T cell secreting Granzyme K (GZMK) is the key culprit behind persistent sinus infections.
After nearly a decade of diligent research, teams from Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital uncovered that these specialized immune cells, previously thought to be defenders against pathogens, are actually fueling chronic inflammation.
\"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. However, we've found that instead of protecting, they are exacerbating the problem.\"
Unlike conventional cells that release Granzyme B to combat infections, these memory CD8+ T cells secrete Granzyme K, which bypasses the need for antibodies to activate the body's defense system. This overactivation leads to increased tissue damage and worsened inflammation in the nasal passages.
Chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps cause symptoms such as nasal congestion, loss of smell, and headaches, significantly impacting quality of life. Current treatments often provide only temporary relief, with many patients experiencing recurrent episodes.
The identification of GZMK as a major player in this process opens new avenues for treatment. Experimental models demonstrated that inhibiting GZMK significantly reduced inflammation, suggesting that targeting this protein could be an effective therapy.
\"In the future, medications designed to target Granzyme K could help control inflammation and reduce recurrence,\" said Professor Qi Hai from Tsinghua University. \"This discovery has the potential to revolutionize treatment for conditions like chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, and related allergic diseases.\"
The research offers hope for millions suffering from these chronic conditions, indicating a promising step toward more effective and lasting treatments.
Contributed by Gong Zhe.
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
