Pulmonary surfactant

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-009667",
  "term": "Pulmonary surfactant",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "A complex mixture of lipids and proteins produced by alveolar cells in the lungs, which reduces the surface tension at the air-liquid interface in the alveoli. This reduction prevents the collapse of the alveoli during exhalation and facilitates easier breathing. Insufficient pulmonary surfactant is a major cause of respiratory distress syndrome in premature infants.",
  "subject": "Chemistry and Human Health",
  "see_also": [
    "alveolus",
    "premature birth",
    "pulmonary",
    "syndrome"
  ],
  "references": [
    "PAC, 2016, 88, 713. 'Glossary of terms used in developmental and reproductive toxicology (IUPAC Recommendations 2016)' on page 810 (https://doi.org/10.1515/pac-2015-1202)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/pulmonary-surfactant/"
}