Surfactant production

Definition

Surfactant production is the process by which the lungs produce surfactant, a substance that reduces surface tension in the alveoli, preventing lung collapse and aiding in efficient gas exchange. Nutrition can influence this process, impacting pulmonary health across different stages of life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Surfactant is primarily composed of lipids and proteins, with phosphatidylcholine being the most abundant lipid.
2. Adequate intake of nutrients such as choline, methionine, and Omega-3 fatty acids is crucial for optimal surfactant production.
3. Surfactant production begins in the fetal stage around week 24 of gestation and continues throughout life.
4. Premature infants are at risk for respiratory distress syndrome due to insufficient surfactant production.
5. Malnutrition or deficiencies in specific nutrients can impair surfactant synthesis, leading to compromised lung function.

Review Questions

• What are the primary components of pulmonary surfactant?
• Why are premature infants at higher risk for respiratory distress syndrome?
• How can nutrition impact surfactant production?

Related terms

Alveoli:

Tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs.

Respiratory Distress Syndrome: A condition often seen in premature infants due to insufficient surfactant production.

Phosphatidylcholine: A major lipid component of lung surfactant critical for reducing surface tension.