A team of scientists from the Chinese mainland has made a groundbreaking discovery that could change the way chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps are treated worldwide.
Published in the renowned scientific journal Nature, the study reveals that a specific type of immune cell, once thought to be a vital defender, is actually fueling persistent inflammation and tissue damage in patients suffering from chronic sinus infections.
After nearly a decade of meticulous research, experts from Tsinghua University and Beijing Tongren Hospital identified Granzyme K (GZMK), a protein secreted by a specialized type of memory CD8+ T cell, as the key culprit behind the worsening of these conditions.
\"White blood cells are like 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 act as specialized commandos. Unlike traditional cells that release Granzyme B, these cells secrete Granzyme K, which, instead of protecting, intensifies tissue damage and inflammation.\"
Chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps affect millions globally, leading to 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 opens the door to promising new treatments. In experimental models, inhibiting GZMK significantly reduced inflammation, suggesting that targeting this protein could control inflammation and reduce the recurrence of symptoms.
\"Medications designed to inhibit Granzyme K could potentially revolutionize the treatment landscape for chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, and related allergic diseases,\" said Professor Qi Hai of Tsinghua University. \"This breakthrough brings hope for more effective and lasting relief to patients worldwide.\"
The study not only enhances the understanding of the immune system's complexities but also highlights the importance of continuous research in uncovering the underlying mechanisms of chronic diseases.
(Report contributed by Gong Zhe.)
Reference(s):
Scientists find immune cells fueling chronic sinus infections
cgtn.com
