Overview
- An ETH Zurich–led team reports in Science Advances that deep breaths markedly reduce surface stress in pulmonary surfactant films.
- Researchers observed a multilayered surfactant structure with a stiffer air-facing layer over softer layers, and sighs restored this optimal arrangement.
- Measured reductions in surface stress were associated with higher lung compliance, offering a physical explanation for the common feeling of relief after a sigh.
- The work used a bubble-like apparatus rather than human lungs, yet the mechanics mirrored clinical patterns seen with persistently shallow breathing.
- The authors note neonatal surfactant therapy’s success contrasts with adult ARDS outcomes and propose studying materials or foam to reconstruct multilayers, with further in vivo and clinical research needed.