Liver

Definition

The liver is a vital organ responsible for numerous metabolic, detoxification, and regulatory functions in the body. It plays a crucial role in digestion by producing bile, which aids in the emulsification of fats.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 1. The liver produces bile, which is essential for the digestion and absorption of fats in the small intestine.
2. 2. It metabolizes nutrients from food intake, converting them into energy and storing vitamins and minerals.
3. 3. The liver detoxifies harmful substances, including alcohol and drugs, preventing them from causing damage to other organs.
4. 4. It synthesizes proteins important for blood clotting (such as fibrinogen) and immune function.
5. 5. Liver health is critical for neurological and hematologic wellness; conditions like hepatic encephalopathy can impact brain function, while liver-produced proteins are essential for blood health.

Review Questions

• 1. What role does bile play in the digestive process?
• 2. How does the liver contribute to detoxifying harmful substances?
• 3. Why is liver function important for both neurological and hematologic health?

Related terms

Bile:

A digestive fluid produced by the liver that helps break down fats into fatty acids in the small intestine

Hepatic Encephalopathy: A decline in brain function that occurs as a result of severe liver disease

Fibrinogen: A protein produced by the liver that is crucial for blood clotting