Abstract
The fetal lung has complex mechanisms for surfactant accumulation and secretion that prepare the fetus for an uncomplicated transition to air breathing. Recent experiments indicate that this transition is not just a process of secretion of accumulated stores, but involves dynamic processes of mobilization of intracellular pools, alveolar surfactant reuptake, and complex changes in alveolar surfactant fractions. The intricacies of these processes and the relative importance of the various proposed secretagogues remain to be further explored. Surfactant is necessary, but not sufficient for normal neonatal pulmonary adaptation. Without adequate central respiratory drive, respiratory muscles, and lung structural maturation, normal respiratory adaptation will not occur.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
