Introduction to Liver Functions

Introduction to Liver

• The liver is the largest solid organ in the body, with a large reserve capacity.
• It receives a dual blood supply via the hepatic artery and portal vein.
• It also has a lymphatic system.
• Bile is produced by the liver, transported via the bile duct, and excreted into the gall bladder.
• Hepatocytes are the functional cells of the liver, composing 60% of its cells. Other cell types include Kupffer cells, endothelial cells, and stellate cells.
• The liver is capable of regeneration.

Liver Functions

• Metabolic: Involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
• Synthesis: Creates proteins (including albumin, numerous enzymes), clotting factors, and complement proteins.
• Storage: Stores glycogen, triglycerides (TGs), iron, copper, and fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, and B12).
• Detoxification: Neutralizes foreign compounds (like drugs) and endogenous substances (like ammonia).
• Bile Production: Creates bile salts, pigments, and cholesterol.

Liver Enzyme Production

• Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)
• Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)
• Gamma-glutamyl Transferase (GGT)
• Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)

Routine Liver Function Tests

• Hepatocyte Damage: Assessed by raised ALT and AST levels, and conjugated bilirubin.
• Biliary Damage/Obstruction: Detected by elevated ALP, GGT, and conjugated bilirubin levels.
• Synthetic Function: Examined through albumin, protein, urea, prothrombin time, and unconjugated bilirubin levels.

Further Liver Function Tests

• Synthetic Function (continued): Assessed by raised cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
• Excretion/Detoxification: Evaluated using bilirubin, ammonia, and drug metabolite levels.

This quiz explores the essential functions and anatomy of the liver. Covering topics such as metabolic processes, protein synthesis, storage capabilities, and its role in detoxification, it provides a comprehensive understanding of this vital organ. Test your knowledge on the liver's structure and function!