What is the purpose of pulmonary surfactant*?

Human pulmonary surfactant (PS) is an endogenous lipoprotein complex produced naturally in the lungs. PS forms a layer on the alveolar epithelium and is responsible in reducing surface tension at the air-fluid interface on the alveolar surface (Agassandian and Mallampalli, 2013).

How does surfactant prevent pulmonary edema?

We conclude that surfactant normalizes surface tension and decreases transcapillary hydrostatic forces in this lung injury model, thereby reducing edema formation and improving gas exchange.

What is an example of a surfactant?

Sodium stearate is a good example of a surfactant. It is the most common surfactant in soap. Another common surfactant is 4-(5-dodecyl)benzenesulfonate. Other examples include docusate (dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate), alkyl ether phosphates, benzalkaonium chloride (BAC), and perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS).

What causes surfactant deficiency in adults?

Surfactant dysfunction is caused by mutations in one of several genes, including SFTPB, SFTPC, and ABCA3. Each of these genes is involved in the production of surfactant. The production and release of surfactant is a complex process.

How does surfactant increase lung compliance?

Compliance and Elastic Recoil of the Lung Therefore, surfactant secreted by type II epithelial cells increases lung compliance by reducing the force of surface tension. A low lung compliance means that the lungs are “stiff” and have a higher than normal level of elastic recoil.

What is the strongest surfactant?

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is the strongest surfactant and is very effective at stripping all oils, including the natural protective ones.

What are some common surfactants?

Alkyl sulfates include ammonium lauryl sulfate, sodium lauryl and the related alkyl-ether sulfates sodium laureth sulfate, also known as sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES), and sodium myreth sulfate. These are the most common surfactants and comprise the alkyl carboxylates (soaps), such as sodium stearate.