Abstract: Single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with surfactant protein B deficiency and respiratory distress syndrome are disclosed. Compositions and methods for the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory distress syndrome in newborn infants are also disclosed.

Abstract: Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the gene encoding surfactant protein C can be used to diagnose interstitial lung disease and to determine whether an individual is predisposed to developing interstitial lung disease. Single-stranded polynucleotides comprising a contiguous series of nucleotides from a mutant allele of a surfactant protein C gene, as well as antibodies which specifically bind to altered forms of surfactant protein C but not to wild-type surfactant protein C, can be used in various methods to detect the presence of disease-associated SNPs.

Abstract: Single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with surfactant protein B deficiency and respiratory distress syndrome are disclosed. Compositions and methods for the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory distress syndrome in newborn infants are also disclosed.