functions of the liver

Functions of the liver

1) production of plasma proteins

2) excretion of bile

3) storage of energy reserves

4) detoxification of poisons

5) inter conversion of nutrients

Liver lobules

basic functional unit of the liver

Hepatocytes

liver cells; liver within lobules in rows resembling the spokes on a wheel

• adjust levels of nutrients through selective absorption and secretion

• Also secrete bile into bile canaliculi which extended away from central vein

Portal triad

interlobular vein, interlobular artery, interlobular bile duct

• “ rows” of hepatocytes are separated by liver sinusoids (resemble fenestrated capillaries)

• Nearby hepatocytes regulate solute/nutrient levels and adjust them accordingly

• Sinusodial lining also contains stellate macrophage/hypffer cells (phagocytosis; storing of lipids, iron, heavy metals)

Hepatic portal system

hepatic portal vein receives blood from capillaries of most of the abdominal viscera and delivers it to liver sinusoids