Metabolism and Organ Function Practice Flashcards

Flashcards covering introductory metabolism, triglyceride structure, liver protein synthesis, and lab values for liver and kidney function.

Gluconeogenesis

The process by which the liver uses proteins (starting with muscles) to create glucose after glycogen and carbohydrate stores are depleted.

Tissue Perfusion

The flow or circulation of blood through the tissues; poor perfusion is characteristic of patients in shock.

Anaerobic Glycolysis

The breakdown of sugar without oxygen, which results in the production of lactic acid.

Triglycerides

Lipids consisting of one glycerol molecule and three fatty acids, often formed when excess sugar is converted into fat.

Adipose Tissue

Stored fat that acts as a fuel source and provides insulation to help keep the body warm.

Phospholipids

Specific types of lipids that are used to build cell walls (cell membranes).

Statins

A type of medication used to manage or lower high cholesterol levels (LDLs and HDLs).

Ketones

The byproduct produced when the body breaks down fatty acids.

Liver Cirrhosis

A condition resulting from liver damage, often due to heavy alcohol consumption, which impairs the liver's ability to produce proteins.

Amino Acids

The fundamental building blocks of proteins.

Nitrogenous Waste

Waste products resulting from protein and amino acid breakdown, including ammonia, urea, and creatinine.

Urea

A waste product converted from ammonia in the liver, which is then sent to the kidneys to be excreted in urine.

Creatinine Range

A blood lab value indicating renal function, normally between $0.5$ and $1.2$.

BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen)

A lab test for liver and kidney function with a normal range between $7$ and $22$.

Albumin Range

A measure of liver function and protein production with a normal range of $3.5$ to $5.0$.

Ammonia Threshold

An indicator of liver dysfunction or failure if levels are greater than $75$.

Hepatic Encephalopathy

A change in mental status or "crazy" behavior caused by high ammonia levels affecting brain circulation due to liver failure.