Biochemistry: The Molecular Basis of Life
Biochemistry: The Molecular Basis of Life
6th Edition
ISBN: 9780190209896
Author: Trudy McKee, James R. McKee
Publisher: Oxford University Press
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Chapter 11, Problem 4Q
Summary Introduction

To review:

(a.) The structure of dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine.

(b.)The reason for the surfactant in reducing the surface tension considering the general structure of phospholipid.

Introduction:

The dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine is a compound when secreted into the lung alveoli reduces the surface tension. The surface tension is responsible for the elastic property of the liquid. Henc, eipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine is considered as a surface active agent. The surface tension reduction helps the alveolar sac not to collapse.

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Dipal mitoylphosphatidylcholine is the major component of surfactant, or surface active agent (an amphipathic molecule), that is secreted into lung alveoli to reduce the surface tension of the primarily aqueous extracellular fluid of the alveolar epithelia. Alveoli, also referred to as alveolar sacs, are the functional units of respiration. Oxygen and carbon dioxide diffuse across the walls of alveolar sacs, which are one cell thick. The water on alveolar surfaces has a high surface tension because of the attractive forces between the molecules. If the water’s surface tension is not reduced, the alveolar sac tends to collapse, making breathing extremely difficult. If premature infants lack sufficient surfactant, they are likely to die of suffocation. This condition is called respiratory distress syndrome. Draw the structure of dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine. Considering the general structural features of phospholipids, propose a reason why surfactant is effective in reducing surface…
Oxygen diffuses from the inhaled air in the alveoli of the lungs, where its concentration is higher, into the cytoplasm of red blood cells, where its concentration is lower. Patients diagnosed with emphysema have damaged alveoli. This results to fewer, larger air spaces instead of many small ones. Explain how this damage can lead to shortness of breath? The surface area of lungs is reduced. Hence, less oxygen can diffuse into the red blood cells. The surface area of lungs is increased. Hence, more oxygen can diffuse into the red blood B cells. The surface area of lungs is reduced. Hence, more oxygen can diffuse into the red blood cells. The surface area of lungs is increased. Hence, less oxygen can diffuse into the red blood cells.
Particulate contamination of the alveoli can result in serious respiratory disease. What three structural and cellular mechanisms are there for reducing the chances of such contamination?

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Biochemistry: The Molecular Basis of Life

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