Molecular Classification
Cellular Barrier, Interface, Extracellular Matrix
Other Names
Air-Liquid Interface, Pulmonary Air-Liquid Interface, Alveolar Epithelial Lining
Disease Roles
ARDSCOPDAsthma

Alveolar Air-Liquid Interface Overview

The alveolar air-liquid interface is a critical physiological boundary in the lung alveoli, where inhaled air meets the thin liquid lining. It facilitates gas exchange and is composed of alveolar epithelial cells (type I and II) and capillary endothelial cells. It is essential for efficient respiration and serves as a primary defense against inhaled pathogens. Disruption of this interface is implicated in various respiratory diseases, and it's a key target for aerosolized drug delivery.

Mechanism of Action

N/A

Biological Functions

Gas exchange
Surfactant production
Immune defense
Barrier function
Fluid balance

Disease Associations

ARDS
COPD
Asthma
Fibrosis
Pneumonia
COVID-19
Pulmonary edema

Safety Considerations

  • Pulmonary toxicity
  • Immune response to inhaled agents
  • Surfactant inactivation by certain drugs
  • Maintaining barrier integrity

Interacting Drugs

Aerosolized drugs
Surfactant replacement therapies
Anti-inflammatory drugs

Associated Biomarkers

Biomarker
Surfactant proteins (SP-A/B/C/D)
Aquaporins
Tight junction proteins
Inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-6, TNF-alpha)