Human alveolar basal epithelial cells (ABECs) are a type of lung epithelial cell that line the alveoli, the small air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange takes place. ABECs are involved in regulating the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the lungs and the blood, as well as maintaining the integrity of the alveolar wall.

ABECs are also believed to play a key role in the development of lung diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and lung cancer. They have been studied in vitro using cell culture systems to investigate the mechanisms of lung disease and to develop potential therapies.

ABECs can be isolated from human lung tissue and cultured in the laboratory. These cells are commonly used as an in vitro model for studying lung diseases and for testing potential drugs or therapies. Studies using ABECs have revealed important insights into the molecular mechanisms of lung disease and have helped to identify potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of lung diseases.