What is the significance of surfactant in the lungs?

Surfactant plays a crucial role in the lungs by reducing surface tension within the alveoli, the tiny air sacs where gas exchange occurs. By decreasing surface tension, surfactant helps to prevent the alveoli from collapsing during exhalation, thereby maintaining their stability and ensuring efficient gas exchange during breathing. Without sufficient surfactant, the alveoli would have a higher tendency to collapse, leading to increased work of breathing and reduced oxygenation of the blood. This is particularly significant in conditions such as neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, where premature infants lack enough surfactant, resulting in respiratory difficulties. The presence of surfactant is essential for normal lung function and optimum respiratory mechanics.