Surfactant Derived Protocol in Heart Failure

Pulmonary surfactant is a highly surface-active lipoprotein complex that lines the alveoli and terminal airways, reducing surface tension and preventing alveolar collapse at the end of expiration. It consists of a lipid (90%) and a protein fraction, with surfactant proteins SP-A, SP-B, SP-C, and SP-D playing crucial roles. SP-B is essential for surfactant function, and its absence leads to severe respiratory failure. Recent studies have shown that plasma SP-B levels are elevated in heart failure (HF) patients, likely due to increased pulmonary microvascular pressure and alveolar-capillary barrier dysfunction. SP-B correlates with HF severity and prognosis, outperforming functional parameters as a predictor of hospitalization. This study aims to compare surfactant proteins with other biomarkers, including RAGE, a receptor linked to lung injury. Using advanced multiplex mass spectrometry, the study seeks to validate immature SP-B as a reliable diagnostic and prognostic marker for HF.