A team of scientists from Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital has made a groundbreaking discovery that could revolutionize the treatment of chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps. Published in the latest issue of Nature, their decade-long study reveals that a specific type of immune cell, previously considered a defender, may instead be fueling persistent inflammation and tissue damage.
The researchers identified Granzyme K (GZMK), a protein secreted by a specialized subset of memory CD8+ T cells, as the key factor exacerbating inflammation. \"Think of white blood cells as the body's defense army, with T lymphocytes as its elite forces,\" explained Dr. Zhang Luo of Beijing Tongren Hospital. \"Within this elite group, memory CD8+ T cells act like specialized commandos.\"
Unlike traditional immune cells that release Granzyme B to combat pathogens, these memory CD8+ T cells secrete Granzyme K. \"Granzyme K bypasses the need for antibodies to activate the body's defense system,\" Dr. Zhang noted. \"However, instead of protecting the tissue, it intensifies damage and inflammation, worsening the patient's condition.\"
Chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps affect millions 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 offers new hope for more effective therapies.
\"Our findings suggest that Granzyme K is a promising new drug target,\" said Professor Qi Hai of Tsinghua University. \"In our experimental models, inhibiting GZMK significantly reduced inflammation. Medications designed to target Granzyme K could help control inflammation and reduce recurrence, potentially transforming the treatment landscape for chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, and related allergic diseases.\"
This breakthrough paves the way for future research into targeted treatments that could improve the quality of life for countless individuals suffering from these challenging conditions.
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
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