Type II alveolar cell

Definition

Type II alveolar cells are specialized epithelial cells located in the alveoli of the lungs, responsible for producing and secreting pulmonary surfactant. This surfactant reduces surface tension within the alveoli, preventing their collapse during exhalation.

Related terms

Pulmonary Surfactant: A complex fluid secreted by type II alveolar cells that decreases surface tension within the alveoli, essential for normal lung function.

Alveoli:

Tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange between air and blood occurs, facilitated by a thin layer of cells including type I and type II alveolar cells.

Type I Alveolar Cell: Flat epithelial cells that form the structure of the alveolar walls allowing gas exchange between the air in the lungs and blood in capillaries