Lung Epithelial Biology: Pathogenesis and Treatment of Pulmonary Diseases

Lung epithelial biology is focused on the study of epithelial cells present in the lungs. These cells are located in the interface between the organism and the environment, and perform various significant functions like fluid balance, barrier protection, surfactant and mucus production, as well as inducing immune responses. The respiratory epithelium acts as a functional and physical barrier responsible for safeguarding against infectious agents. The alveolar surface is stacked with membranous pneumocytes called granular pneumocytes, type I alveolar epithelial cells (AEC I) and type II alveolar epithelial cells (AEC II). AEC I are thin, squamous and large cells that contribute in gaseous exchange. These cells also create a barrier to detect microbial products for initiating inflammatory responses. AEC II are cuboidal cells responsible for epithelium reparation upon injury and ion transport. These are also involved in lung defense through the secretion of antimicrobial products, like complement, lysozyme, and surfactant proteins (SP). This book is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex advancements in the study of lung epithelial biology. Researchers and students engaged in the treatment of pulmonary diseases will be assisted by it.