A groundbreaking study published in the prestigious journal Nature has unveiled that a specific type of immune cell, once thought to be a crucial defender, actually exacerbates chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps by fueling persistent inflammation and tissue damage.
After nearly a decade of meticulous research, scientists from China's Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital have identified Granzyme K (GZMK), a protein secreted by a specialized type of memory CD8+ T cell, as the key culprit behind these chronic conditions.
\"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.\"
Dr. Zhang further elaborated, \"Unlike traditional cells that release Granzyme B, these particular cells secrete Granzyme K, which 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 affect millions worldwide, causing symptoms such as nasal congestion, loss of smell, and headaches. While current treatments offer temporary relief, many patients experience recurrent episodes, highlighting the need for more effective solutions.
The discovery of GZMK as a significant factor in these conditions opens new avenues for treatment. Experimental models showed that inhibiting GZMK significantly reduced inflammation, suggesting that it could be a promising target for new medications.
\"In the future, medications designed to target Granzyme K could help control inflammation and reduce recurrence,\" said Professor Qi Hai of Tsinghua University. \"This has the potential to revolutionize the treatment landscape for conditions like chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, and related allergic diseases.\"
This research not only sheds light on the underlying mechanisms of chronic sinus infections but also offers hope for millions suffering from these debilitating conditions.
Reported by Gong Zhe
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
