Summary
The protein encoded by this gene (SP-A1) is primarily synthesized in lung alveolar type II cells (see type II pneumocyte), as part of a complex of lipids and proteins known as pulmonary surfactant. The function of this complex is to reduce surface tension in the alveolus and prevent collapse during expiration. The protein component of surfactant helps in the modulation of the innate immune response, and inflammatory processes.
SP-A1 is a member of a subfamily of C-type lectins called collectins. Together with SP-A2 (see SFTPA2), they are the most abundant proteins of pulmonary surfactant. SP-A1 binds to the carbohydrates found in the surface of several microorganisms and helps in the defense against respiratory pathogens.
Surfactant homeostasis is critical for breathing (and thus survival) in the prematurely born infant, but also for maintaining lung health, and normal lung function throughout life. Quantitative and/or qualitative alterations in surfactant composition and/or function are associated with respiratory diseases.
Read more about this topic: Pulmonary Surfactant-associated Protein A1
Famous quotes containing the word summary:
“I have simplified my politics into an utter detestation of all existing governments; and, as it is the shortest and most agreeable and summary feeling imaginable, the first moment of an universal republic would convert me into an advocate for single and uncontradicted despotism. The fact is, riches are power, and poverty is slavery all over the earth, and one sort of establishment is no better, nor worse, for a people than another.”
—George Gordon Noel Byron (1788–1824)
“Product of a myriad various minds and contending tongues, compact of obscure and minute association, a language has its own abundant and often recondite laws, in the habitual and summary recognition of which scholarship consists.”
—Walter Pater (1839–1894)