Saturday, 21 April 2018

The liver

Organ system: Digestive system

The liver is a massive collection of highly active cells called hepatocytes.

The biliary system

The hepatocytes produce components of bile, this flows through an intricate network of drainage vessels into the biliary (bile system) and ultimately into the intestines where it aids digestion and protects the tissues from excessive stomach acid.

Metabolism

The hepatocytes also produce an arsenal of enzymes to breakdown waste and toxins. For this purpose, the liver has a rich blood supply and accepts a large proportion of the blood returning from the intestines through the venous system. At any moment, you can find a large proportion of your blood volume in your liver. 

 

Liver diseases

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