Dopamine is a neurotransmitter, which can also be produced outside the central nervous system. Lung alveolar epithelial cells represent an important source of extraneuronal dopamine, which has a significant role in local organ physiology. Dopamine D1 receptor (DRD1) and D2 receptor (DRD2) are present in lung tissues. Activation of D2DR induces NaKATPase gene expression. Moreover, activation of DRD1 results in the trafficking of NaKATPase to the basolateral membrane of type II alveolar epithelial cells, thus increasing lung liquid clearance during acute lung injury. Although the lung-protective effects of DA and its implication in the pathology of ALI are emerging, the mechanisms are still largely unknown.