Which respiratory epithelial cell (1)is at maturation essential for survival of premature infants,(2)produces surfactant,(3)differentiates to establish normal cellular architecture during development and repair,and (4)normally occupies

Question

Which respiratory epithelial cell (1)is at maturation essential for survival of premature infants,(2)produces surfactant,(3)differentiates to establish normal cellular architecture during development and repair,and (4)normally occupies <5% of the luminal surface area after birth?
A)Clara cell
B)Type I epithelial cell
C)Type II epithelial cell
D)Goblet cell
E)Kultschitzky cell

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Type II epithelial cells are essential for the production of surfactant, which is crucial for the maturation and survival of premature infants. They also differentiate to establish normal cellular architecture during development and repair. Goblet cells produce mucus, Clara cells are involved in detoxification, and Kultschitzky cells secrete hormones, but none of these functions match the description given in the question. Additionally, Type I epithelial cells are primarily involved in gas exchange and make up the majority of the luminal surface area, so they also do not fit the description.

Which Respiratory Epithelial Cell (1)is at Maturation Essential for Survival