Scientists have discovered that a specific type of immune cell, previously thought to be a vital defender, is actually fueling persistent inflammation and tissue damage in people suffering from chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps.
In a groundbreaking study published in the journal Nature, researchers from China's Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital identified Granzyme K (GZMK)—a protein secreted by specialized memory CD8+ T cells—as a key culprit in exacerbating these chronic 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. 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, causing symptoms such as nasal congestion, loss of smell, and headaches. Current treatments often offer only temporary relief, with many patients experiencing recurrent episodes.
The identification of GZMK as a significant contributor to inflammation opens new avenues for treatment. Experimental models demonstrated that inhibiting GZMK significantly reduced inflammation in affected tissues.
\"In the future, medications designed to target Granzyme K could help control inflammation and reduce recurrence,\" said Professor Qi Hai of Tsinghua University. \"This discovery has the potential to revolutionize the treatment landscape for conditions like chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, and related allergic diseases.\"
The study represents nearly a decade of collaborative research and offers hope for more effective therapies that address the underlying causes of chronic sinus ailments, rather than just managing symptoms.
Gong Zhe contributed to this story.
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
