Ch. 12 Liver

Hepatocytes

The main functional cells of the liver responsible for a wide range of metabolic processes.

Bile

An alkaline secretion produced by the liver that aids in the digestion of fats.

Portal Triad

A structure in the liver consisting of a bile duct, hepatic artery, and portal vein.

Cirrhosis

A chronic liver disease characterized by scarring and impaired liver function, often due to alcohol abuse or viral hepatitis.

Bilirubin

A waste product from the breakdown of red blood cells, processed by the liver.

Cirrhosis

Caused by chronic alcohol consumption or viral hepatitis, leading to liver scarring and dysfunction.

Hepatitis A

A viral infection caused by consuming contaminated food or water.

Hepatitis B

A bloodborne virus that can be transmitted sexually or through IV drug use; preventable by vaccine.

Hepatitis C

A bloodborne virus primarily transmitted through IV drug use; now curable with modern treatments.

Gallstones

Solidified bile that can cause pain and blockages in the biliary tract.

Bile Synthesis and Secretion

Produces bile to emulsify fats, aiding in digestion and absorption in the small intestine.

Excretion of Bilirubin

Conjugates bilirubin with glucuronic acid for excretion in bile, helping to eliminate waste

Protein Metabolism

Synthesizes proteins like albumin, which maintains osmotic pressure in the blood.

Carbohydrate Metabolism

Converts amino acids and lipids into glucose (gluconeogenesis) and stores glycogen.

Detoxification

Metabolizes and detoxifies drugs and toxins, converting ammonia to urea for excretion.

Hepatic Artery

Supplies oxygenated blood to the liver from the celiac trunk.

Portal Vein

Carries nutrient-rich blood from the digestive organs to the liver for processing.

Sinusoids

Specialized capillaries in the liver that allow for the exchange of substances between blood and hepatocytes.

Central Vein

Collects blood from the liver and drains it into the hepatic veins leading to the heart.

Bile Ducts

Transport bile from the liver to the gallbladder and small intestine for fat digestion.