In a groundbreaking study published in the prestigious journal Nature, researchers from China's Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital have uncovered a surprising culprit behind chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps—a specialized type of immune cell previously thought to be a key defender in our immune system.
After nearly a decade of meticulous research, the team identified Granzyme K (GZMK), a protein secreted by a specific subset of memory CD8+ T cells, as a major contributor to persistent inflammation and tissue damage in the nasal passages.
\\"White blood cells are often viewed as the body's defensive army, with T lymphocytes serving as its elite forces,\\" explained Dr. Zhang Luo of Beijing Tongren Hospital. \\"Among them, memory CD8+ T cells function like specialized commandos. However, we've discovered that those secreting Granzyme K can actually intensify tissue damage instead of protecting against it.\\"
Unlike traditional T cells that release Granzyme B to combat infections, these memory CD8+ T cells secrete Granzyme K, which can bypass the need for antibodies to activate the immune response. This unexpected behavior leads to exacerbated inflammation and worsens the condition of patients suffering from chronic sinus infections.
Chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps affect millions of people worldwide, causing symptoms such as nasal congestion, loss of smell, and headaches. Current treatments often provide only temporary relief, with many patients experiencing recurrent episodes that impact their quality of life.
The discovery of GZMK's role opens new avenues for treatment. Experimental models demonstrated that inhibiting GZMK significantly reduced inflammation, suggesting that it could be a promising target for new medications.
\\"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 findings offer hope for more effective therapies that address the underlying causes of chronic sinus inflammation, rather than just alleviating symptoms. As research continues, patients worldwide may soon benefit from treatments that provide lasting relief.
(Reporting by Gong Zhe)
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
