A groundbreaking study published in the prestigious journal Nature has unveiled a surprising culprit behind chronic sinus infections and nasal polyps: a specialized type of immune cell that, contrary to its protective role, exacerbates inflammation and tissue damage.
After nearly a decade of meticulous research, scientists from Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital in the Chinese mainland have identified Granzyme K (GZMK), a protein secreted by a unique subset of memory CD8+ T cells, as the key instigator in persistent sinus inflammation.
\"White blood cells are often regarded as the body's defense army, and among them, T lymphocytes act as elite forces,\" explained Dr. Zhang Luo from Beijing Tongren Hospital. \"Within this group, memory CD8+ T cells function like specialized commandos. However, we've discovered that these 'commandos' can, in certain contexts, cause unintended harm.\"
Unlike traditional immune cells that release Granzyme B to combat pathogens, this subset secretes Granzyme K. \"Granzyme K operates independently of antibodies to activate the body's defense mechanisms,\" Dr. Zhang continued. \"But in cases of chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps, instead of providing protection, Granzyme K amplifies tissue damage and inflammation, worsening the patient's condition.\"
Chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps impact millions globally, leading to symptoms such as nasal congestion, loss of smell, and headaches. These conditions not only diminish quality of life but also pose significant challenges to effective long-term management. While existing treatments may offer temporary relief, many patients suffer from recurrent episodes that are difficult to control.
The discovery of GZMK's role opens new avenues for therapeutic intervention. Experimental models demonstrated that inhibiting GZMK significantly reduced inflammation, suggesting that it could be a promising target for new medications.
\"In the future, drugs designed to specifically inhibit Granzyme K could help control inflammation and reduce recurrence,\" said Professor Qi Hai of Tsinghua University. \"This approach has the potential to revolutionize the treatment landscape for chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, and related allergic diseases.\"
The research team is optimistic that targeting GZMK could lead to more effective therapies, offering hope to millions of patients worldwide. Further clinical trials are anticipated to explore the efficacy and safety of GZMK inhibitors in human subjects.
(Reporting contributed by Gong Zhe.)
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
