Lung parenchymal tissue

The **lung parenchymal tissue** comprises the portion of the lung involved in gas exchange, mainly consisting of alveoli, alveolar ducts, and respiratory bronchioles. Unlike airways or vasculature, parenchymal tissue is defined by its histological and functional role rather than a specific molecular entity. Its primary function is to facilitate oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange between air and blood[3][2]. The **mechanical properties** of lung parenchyma arise from the composition and organization of collagen and elastic fibers in the extracellular matrix, which determine lung elasticity, resistance, and recoil[1]. Diseases such as fibrosis, emphysema, and inflammation alter the structure and mechanics of lung parenchyma, leading to impaired respiratory function[1]. Drug therapies in respiratory disease may affect cells within parenchymal tissue but do not target the parenchyma directly as a molecular entity.

Other names

Lung parenchymapulmonary parenchyma