A groundbreaking study published in the scientific journal Nature has unveiled a surprising culprit behind chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps: a specialized type of immune cell that, contrary to previous beliefs, exacerbates inflammation and tissue damage.
After nearly a decade of meticulous research, scientists from the Chinese mainland'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 key contributor to persistent sinus inflammation.
\"White blood cells are often seen as the body’s defense army, with T lymphocytes serving as its elite forces,\" explained Dr. Zhang Luo from Beijing Tongren Hospital. \"Within this elite unit, memory CD8+ T cells function like specialized commandos.\"
Dr. Zhang elaborated that these particular memory T cells deviate from traditional immune responses. \"Unlike conventional cells that release Granzyme B, these cells secrete Granzyme K, which 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.\"
Chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps affect millions worldwide, causing debilitating 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 it as a promising target for new medications.
\"In the future, drugs designed to target Granzyme K could help control inflammation and reduce recurrence,\" said Professor Qi Hai of Tsinghua University. \"This has the potential to revolutionize the treatment landscape for conditions like chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, and related allergic diseases.\"
The researchers believe that targeting Granzyme K could lead to more effective and lasting treatments, offering hope to those afflicted by chronic sinus issues.
(Gong Zhe contributed to this story.)
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
