Beijing, China — In a groundbreaking study published in the journal Nature, scientists from 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 meticulous research, the team discovered that Granzyme K (GZMK), a protein secreted by a specialized subset of memory CD8+ T cells, plays a pivotal role in sustaining inflammation and causing 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. This protein 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 recurring episodes. The identification of GZMK offers a promising new target for drug development.
Experimental models demonstrated that inhibiting GZMK significantly reduced inflammation, suggesting a potential pathway for more effective 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.\"
The findings not only shed light on the underlying mechanisms of these common ailments but also open doors for developing treatments that could vastly improve the quality of life for affected individuals globally.
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
