Role of the surfactant in Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 infections

Abstract

This article reviews the role of the surfactant in the physiopathology and development of the pulmonary disease (COVID-19) caused by SARS-CoV-2 which is responsible for the ongoing pandemic that started in early 2020.  This virus has capacity to modify the components of surfactant, and this increases its replication and dissemination. Given the important role surfactant has in antiviral host defenses and lung physiology, surfactant has been studied in the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infections. However, much more research is needed to understand the role of the surfactant in the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 and its potential use in treatment. 

Key words: Surfactant, COVID 19, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), pathogenesis, treatment.