Evolution of understanding the anatomy of the respiratory system

This article highlights the history of the development of the anatomy of the respiratory system. The preparation of this publication utilized articles from journals included in the Russian Science Citation Index (RSCI) and Pub- Med. The depth of the publication search spanned 20 years. The article summarizes knowledge about the development of ideas about the anatomy of the respiratory system. The first mentions of the respiratory organs—lungs, bronchi, trachea—date back to Ancient times. Scientists and physicians of that era attempted to determine the structure of the lungs. Not all medical schools associated breathing with the lungs. During the Renaissance, empirical knowledge in this field continued to accumulate. Autopsies allowed for more detailed descriptions of the chest structure, lungs, trachea, and bronchial system. The invention of the microscope in the 17th century enabled the study of lung structure down to the alveoli and capillaries. Various types of epithelial cells of the respiratory tract, nasal cavity sinuses, and more were described. In modern times, technologies have made it possible to obtain the first microphotographs showing the ultrastructure of the pulmonary capillary and the blood-gas barrier. The history of the development of the understanding of the anatomy of the respiratory system can be considered when studying specific topics within university courses such as "Human Anatomy," "History of Medicine," and "History of Biology."