What are the functions of liver?

The liver is a vital organ with numerous functions essential for maintaining overall health and proper bodily function. Some of the key functions of the liver include:

1. Metabolism:

   • Carbohydrate metabolism: The liver helps regulate blood glucose levels by storing excess glucose as glycogen (glycogenesis) and releasing glucose into the bloodstream as needed (glycogenolysis).
   • Lipid metabolism: It synthesizes and metabolizes lipids, including cholesterol and triglycerides, and helps regulate lipid levels in the blood.
   • Protein metabolism: The liver synthesizes plasma proteins, such as albumin and clotting factors, and metabolizes amino acids.

2. Detoxification:

   • The liver plays a central role in detoxifying harmful substances by metabolizing drugs, alcohol, and other toxins.
   • It converts ammonia, a byproduct of protein metabolism, into urea for excretion by the kidneys in the form of urine.

3. Bile Production:

   • The liver produces bile, a greenish-yellow fluid that aids in digestion and absorption of fats in the small intestine.
   • Bile contains bile salts, which emulsify fats, allowing them to be broken down into smaller droplets and digested more efficiently by lipase enzymes.

4. Storage:

   • The liver serves as a storage reservoir for various nutrients and vitamins, including glycogen (stored glucose), fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), and iron.
   • It also stores blood, which can be released into the bloodstream when needed to maintain blood volume and pressure.

5. Synthesis of Blood Components:

   • The liver synthesizes several important blood components, including clotting factors (such as fibrinogen and prothrombin) and complement proteins involved in the immune response.

6. Immune Function:

   • The liver contains specialized immune cells called Kupffer cells, which help remove pathogens, dead cells, and other debris from the bloodstream.
   • It also produces acute-phase proteins that contribute to the body's immune response to infection and inflammation.

7. Regulation of Hormones:

   • The liver metabolizes and regulates the levels of various hormones, including insulin, glucagon, and thyroid hormones, contributing to overall hormonal balance and metabolic regulation.

Overall, the liver plays a central role in numerous physiological processes essential for maintaining homeostasis and overall health, making it one of the most vital organs in the human body.