AUTHOR=Xin Cui , Liu Peiyun , Zhan Qianqian , Cao Wenqiang 

TITLE=Gzmk+ CD8 T cells in inflammatory diseases

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Immunology

VOLUME=Volume 16 - 2025

YEAR=2025

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2025.1661755

DOI=10.3389/fimmu.2025.1661755

ISSN=1664-3224

ABSTRACT=T cells are integral to the immune response, with distinct subsets exhibiting specialized functions, a phenomenon well-characterized in helper CD4+ T cells. Recent advancements in single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) have facilitated the identification of numerous novel CD8 T cell subsets, each characterized by unique functional properties. As cytotoxic T lymphocytes, the primary focus has been on the cytotoxic capabilities and antigen specificity of these subsets. A recently identified subset, Granzyme k (Gzmk)+ CD8 T cells, has been closely associated with inflammatory diseases, independent of their cytotoxic function. Unlike other granzymes, granzyme K predominantly induces proinflammatory responses in tissues or cells rather than mediating cytotoxicity. This review synthesizes current evidence regarding the regulation, functional roles, and underlying mechanisms of Gzmk+ CD8 T cells in inflammatory conditions. Elucidating these processes may reveal potential therapeutic targets for treating inflammatory diseases.