alveolar epithelium

Alveolar epithelium is the thin cellular lining of the alveoli in the lungs, composed primarily of type I and type II pneumocytes that facilitate gas exchange and produce surfactant, respectively. Its integrity is crucial for efficient oxygen and carbon dioxide diffusion and maintaining alveolar stability. Damage to this epithelium, as seen in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), impairs gas exchange and can lead to respiratory failure.