Fundamental structural aspects and features in the bioengineering of the gas exchangers

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The history of biology showcases how comparative biology has clarified the relationship between structure and function in complex animals, significantly contributing to the development of physiology. Comparative morphologists face the challenge of identifying evolutionary changes in organisms' forms and functions and the factors driving these changes. This contribution aims to explore fundamental structural aspects of respiratory organs while discussing the timing, mechanisms, and reasons behind their evolution. The thesis posits that modern gas exchangers are the result of long-term adaptations to specific environments and lifestyles, with only the most effective designs for oxygen exchange being preserved. However, the foundational works of Krogh and Dejours on the comparative physiology of respiratory organs lack comprehensive morphological studies. Our approach examines the limiting functional properties of gas exchangers concerning their respiratory capacities, identifying the structural adaptations that have evolved to meet metabolic demands. This investigation enables a clearer understanding of the correlation between structure and function in respiratory systems.