In a groundbreaking study published in Nature, researchers from China's Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital have identified a specific type of immune cell that intensifies inflammation and tissue damage in chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps.
After nearly a decade of investigation, the team found that Granzyme K (GZMK), a protein secreted by a specialized type of memory CD8+ T cell, plays a key role in worsening these conditions.
\"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 like specialized commandos.\"
He added, \"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 offer temporary relief, but many patients experience recurrent episodes.
The study suggests that GZMK could be a promising new drug target. Experimental models demonstrated that inhibiting GZMK 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.\"
(Gong Zhe contributed to this story.)
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
