New_Study_Reveals_Immune_Cells_Fueling_Chronic_Sinusitis

New Study Reveals Immune Cells Fueling Chronic Sinusitis

In a groundbreaking study published in the scientific journal Nature, researchers from China's Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital have discovered that a specific type of immune cell, previously thought to be a key defender against infections, may actually exacerbate chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps.

Over nearly a decade of investigation, the team identified Granzyme K (GZMK), a protein secreted by a specialized subset of memory CD8+ T cells, as a significant contributor to persistent inflammation and tissue damage in patients suffering from these conditions.

\"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 function like specialized commandos. However, instead of protecting the body, the Granzyme K they secrete intensifies tissue damage and inflammation, worsening the condition.\"

Unlike traditional T cells that release Granzyme B to combat pathogens, these specialized memory CD8+ T cells secrete Granzyme K, which bypasses the need for antibodies to activate the body's defense system. The result is an overactive immune response that leads to chronic inflammation.

Chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps affect millions worldwide, causing symptoms such as nasal congestion, loss of smell, and headaches. While current treatments can offer temporary relief, many patients experience recurrent episodes, highlighting the need for more effective therapies.

The study suggests that targeting GZMK could be a promising new approach for treatment. In experimental models, inhibiting GZMK significantly reduced inflammation, pointing to the potential for new medications.

\"In the future, drugs designed to inhibit 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.\"

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