Chinese Researchers Identify Immune Culprit Behind Chronic Sinusitis

Scientists from China's Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital have discovered that a specific type of immune cell may be responsible for chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps, conditions affecting millions worldwide.

Published in the journal Nature, the study reveals that memory CD8+ T cells secrete a protein called Granzyme K (GZMK), which intensifies inflammation and causes tissue damage in the nasal passages.

\"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 memory CD8+ T cells secrete Granzyme K. \"This protein bypasses the need for antibodies to activate the body's defense system,\" Dr. Zhang continued. \"However, instead of protecting, Granzyme K intensifies tissue damage and inflammation, worsening the condition.\"

Chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps lead to symptoms such as nasal congestion, loss of smell, and headaches. Current treatments often provide only temporary relief, with many patients experiencing recurrent episodes.

The researchers suggest that targeting GZMK could offer a new therapeutic approach. Experimental models demonstrated that inhibiting Granzyme K 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.\"

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