Turkish J Pediatr
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Although genetic factors are assumed to have a role in the etiology of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), specific genes underlying this susceptibility are incompletely known. The most promising candidates are the genes coding for the lung-specific protein components of the surfactant. In congenital absence of surfactant protein A in mice, lung mechanics or surfactant homeostasis is normal. ⋯ Unlike surfactant protein A, it does not contribute to lowering surface tension. Surfactant protein D-deficient mice have no respiratory abnormalities at birth, but it causes development of emphysema and predisposition to specific infections. No human infant or child with respiratory distress and mutation in the surfactant protein D gene has been identified.