Q: Discuss structure and Function of liver?
The liver is a large, reddish-brown, wedge-shaped organ
located in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen,
beneath the diaphragm. It's the largest gland in the body
and performs over 500 essential functions. Key functions
include filtering toxins from the blood, producing bile for
fat digestion, regulating blood sugar, and synthesizing
proteins and clotting factors.
Structure:
Lobes:
The liver is divided into two main lobes: the larger right
lobe and the smaller left lobe.
Lobules:
These lobes are further divided into lobules, which are the
functional units of the liver.
Blood Supply:
The liver receives blood from two sources: the hepatic
artery (oxygenated blood) and the portal vein (nutrient-rich
blood from the digestive system).
Hepatocytes:
These are the main cells of the liver, responsible for
carrying out its diverse functions.
Sinusoids:
These are specialized blood capillaries within the lobules
that allow for the exchange of substances between blood
and hepatocytes.
Functions:
Detoxification:
The liver filters harmful substances, like drugs and alcohol,
from the blood, breaking them down into less harmful
compounds for excretion.
Bile Production:
The liver produces bile, which is stored in the gallbladder
and then released into the small intestine to aid in fat
digestion.
Metabolism:
The liver plays a crucial role in metabolizing carbohydrates,
proteins, and fats.
Nutrient Storage:
It stores vitamins (A, D, E, K, and B12) and minerals, as
well as glucose in the form of glycogen.
Protein Synthesis:
The liver synthesizes various proteins, including albumin
(which helps maintain blood volume), clotting factors, and
enzymes.
Waste Removal:
It removes waste products like bilirubin (from the
breakdown of red blood cells) and ammonia (from protein
metabolism).
Blood Sugar Regulation:
The liver regulates blood sugar levels by storing glucose
as glycogen and releasing it when needed.
Blood Clotting:
It produces clotting factors necessary for blood
coagulation.
Immunity:
The liver plays a role in fighting infections by producing
immune factors and removing bacteria from the
bloodstream.