pulmonary surfactant

Pulmonary surfactant is a mixture of lipids and proteins produced in the lungs that reduces surface tension within the tiny air sacs called alveoli. These alveoli are where oxygen exchanges with the blood. Without surfactant, the alveoli would stick together and collapse, making breathing difficult. Surfactant allows the alveoli to stay open and expand easily during inhalation, ensuring efficient oxygen intake and carbon dioxide removal. It begins to be produced late in pregnancy and is vital for healthy lung function, especially in newborns. Premature infants often lack enough surfactant, which can cause breathing problems called neonatal respiratory distress syndrome.