A team of scientists from Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital has uncovered a surprising culprit behind chronic sinus infections and nasal polyps: a specialized type of immune cell that, contrary to its typical defensive role, exacerbates inflammation and tissue damage.
The study, published in the prestigious journal Nature, reveals that Granzyme K (GZMK), a protein secreted by a unique subset of memory CD8+ T cells, plays a pivotal role in the persistent inflammation observed in patients with chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps.
\\"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. \\"Among them, memory CD8+ T cells are akin to specialized commandos.\\"
Dr. Zhang noted that unlike traditional cells that release Granzyme B to combat pathogens, these memory CD8+ T cells secrete Granzyme K. \\"Granzyme K bypasses the need for antibodies to activate the body's defense system. However, instead of protecting the body, it intensifies tissue damage and inflammation, worsening the condition,\\" he said.
Chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps affect millions of people worldwide, leading to symptoms such as nasal congestion, loss of smell, and headaches. While current treatments can offer temporary relief, many patients experience recurrent episodes, highlighting the need for more effective therapies.
The discovery of GZMK's role offers a promising new target for drug development. Experimental models demonstrated that inhibiting GZMK significantly reduced inflammation, suggesting potential for improved treatments.
\\"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.\\"
The research not only enhances understanding of immune mechanisms but also opens new avenues for therapeutic intervention, bringing hope to countless patients suffering from these chronic conditions.
(Gong Zhe contributed to this story.)
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
