A groundbreaking study by researchers from China's Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital has unveiled a surprising culprit behind chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps: a specific type of immune cell that exacerbates inflammation and tissue damage.
Published in the journal Nature, the research focuses on Granzyme K (GZMK), a protein secreted by a specialized memory CD8+ T cell. Traditionally considered defenders against pathogens, these immune cells unexpectedly fuel persistent inflammation in sinus tissues.
\"White blood cells are like the body's defense army, with T lymphocytes serving as its elite forces,\" explained Dr. Zhang Luo from Beijing Tongren Hospital. \"Within this elite, memory CD8+ T cells function as specialized commandos. However, instead of safeguarding the body, those secreting Granzyme K intensify tissue damage and inflammation, worsening conditions like chronic sinusitis.\"
Unlike conventional cells that release Granzyme B to combat infections, these memory T cells secrete Granzyme K, which can activate the body's defense mechanisms without the need for antibodies. This unconventional pathway leads to heightened inflammation rather than protection.
Chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps affect millions worldwide, causing persistent symptoms such as nasal congestion, loss of smell, and headaches. Current treatments often provide only temporary relief, with many patients experiencing recurrent episodes.
The discovery of GZMK's role opens new avenues for therapeutic intervention. Experimental models demonstrated that inhibiting GZMK significantly reduced inflammation, suggesting that medications targeting Granzyme K could revolutionize treatment.
\"In the future, drugs designed to inhibit Granzyme K may help control inflammation and reduce recurrence,\" said Professor Qi Hai of Tsinghua University. \"This could potentially transform the treatment landscape for chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, and related allergic diseases.\"
The study marks a significant step forward in understanding the complex immune mechanisms underlying chronic sinus conditions, offering hope for more effective and lasting treatments.
(Gong Zhe contributed to this story.)
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
