Chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps affect millions worldwide, leading to persistent nasal congestion, loss of smell, and debilitating headaches. While treatments exist, many sufferers find little long-term relief as the conditions often recur.
In a significant breakthrough, researchers from China's Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital have identified a surprising culprit behind this persistent inflammation: a specialized immune cell that, instead of protecting the body, actually exacerbates the problem.
\"White blood cells are like the body's defense army, with T lymphocytes serving as elite forces,\" explained Dr. Zhang Luo from Beijing Tongren Hospital. \"Among them, memory CD8+ T cells are like specialized commandos.\"
The researchers discovered that these memory CD8+ T cells secrete a protein called Granzyme K (GZMK). Unlike traditional cells that release Granzyme B to combat infections, Granzyme K bypasses the need for antibodies to activate the body's defense system. However, rather than defending, GZMK intensifies tissue damage and inflammation, worsening chronic sinusitis.
\"After nearly a decade of investigation, we've pinpointed GZMK as a key player in the persistent inflammation seen in chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps,\" said Professor Qi Hai of Tsinghua University.
Experimental models showed that inhibiting GZMK significantly reduced inflammation, suggesting it as a promising new drug target. \"Medications designed to target Granzyme K could help control inflammation and reduce recurrence,\" Professor Qi added. \"This could potentially revolutionize the treatment landscape for conditions like chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, and related allergic diseases.\"
The findings bring hope to millions affected by these conditions, offering a path toward more effective and lasting treatments.
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
