In a groundbreaking study published in Nature, scientists from China's Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital have identified a specific type of immune cell that exacerbates chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps, conditions affecting millions worldwide.
After nearly a decade of research, the team discovered that Granzyme K (GZMK), a protein secreted by a specialized type of memory CD8+ T cell, plays a pivotal role in fueling persistent inflammation and 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 of 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 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 study's findings suggest that targeting GZMK could be a promising new approach for treatment. Experimental models demonstrated that inhibiting GZMK significantly reduced inflammation, offering hope for more effective and lasting therapies.
\"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 discovery not only sheds light on the underlying mechanisms of chronic sinus inflammation but also opens doors for developing drugs that can improve the quality of life for millions suffering from these debilitating conditions.
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
