In a groundbreaking study, researchers from China's Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital have uncovered that a specific type of immune cell, previously thought to be a vital defender, may actually exacerbate chronic sinus infections and nasal polyps.
Published in the renowned journal Nature, the study identifies Granzyme K (GZMK), a protein secreted by a specialized type of memory CD8+ T cell, as a key contributor to persistent inflammation and tissue damage in chronic sinusitis.
\"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.\"
Dr. Zhang elaborated that unlike traditional cells which release Granzyme B, 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, it intensifies tissue damage and inflammation, worsening the condition.\"
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.
The discovery of GZMK's role opens new avenues for treatment. Experimental models showed that inhibiting GZMK significantly reduced inflammation, suggesting it as a promising new drug target.
\"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
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