Surface-active layer of phospholipids and proteins coating the pulmonary alveoli that increases lung compliance, facilitates lung expansion, and stabilizes alveolar volume.
Note: Lack of pulmonary surfactant is more common following
premature birth and is a cause of infant respiratory distress
syndrome.
Source:
PAC, 2016, 88, 713. 'Glossary of terms used in developmental and reproductive toxicology (IUPAC Recommendations 2016)' on page 810 (https://doi.org/10.1515/pac-2015-1202)