A breakthrough study by scientists from China's Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital has identified a specific immune cell protein that exacerbates chronic sinus infections and nasal polyps. Published recently in Nature, the research sheds light on how Granzyme K (GZMK), a protein secreted by a specialized type of memory CD8+ T cell, fuels persistent inflammation and tissue damage.
\"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. Unlike traditional 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, leading to symptoms like 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 offers a new direction for therapeutic intervention.
The researchers demonstrated that inhibiting GZMK in experimental models 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 could potentially revolutionize the treatment landscape for conditions like chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, and related allergic diseases.\"
This groundbreaking finding not only enhances understanding of the immune mechanisms behind chronic sinus conditions but also paves the way for developing more effective treatments, offering hope to sufferers worldwide.
(Gong Zhe contributed to this story.)
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
