What cells produce surfactant? What is the function of surfactant?

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What cells produce surfactant? What is the function of surfactant?

Surfactant is produced by alveolar type II cells (pneumocytes). Its job is to lower the surface tension of the thin water film lining the alveoli. By reducing this tension, surfactant prevents alveolar collapse during exhalation and makes the lungs easier to inflate, lowering the work of breathing. This substance contains phospholipids (notably DPPC) and specific proteins that help spread and regulate the layer. Alveolar type I cells form the gas-exchange surface, while alveolar macrophages clear debris, and goblet cells (which secrete mucus) are located in larger airways, not the alveoli. The key function is reducing surface tension in the thin water coating of the alveolar surface.

Surfactant is produced by alveolar type II cells (pneumocytes). Its job is to lower the surface tension of the thin water film lining the alveoli. By reducing this tension, surfactant prevents alveolar collapse during exhalation and makes the lungs easier to inflate, lowering the work of breathing. This substance contains phospholipids (notably DPPC) and specific proteins that help spread and regulate the layer. Alveolar type I cells form the gas-exchange surface, while alveolar macrophages clear debris, and goblet cells (which secrete mucus) are located in larger airways, not the alveoli. The key function is reducing surface tension in the thin water coating of the alveolar surface.

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