SS1. Functions of The Liver

Question 1

What are the functions of the liver?

Answer 1

Synthesis & secretion of bile
Carbohydrate metabolism
Fat metabolism
Protein metabolism
Endocrine function
Detoxification
Iron & Vit B12 storage

Question 2

What does the liver do with carbohydrate metabolism?

Answer 2

It functions as a reserve for glycogen. Can be turned to glucose by gluconeogenesis.

Question 3

Explain the fat metabolism

Answer 3

Fats are absorbed via bile salts
Stores fat-soluble vitamins
Synthesis of lipoproteins (catabolism & anabolism)
Stored as lipoprotein or triglyceride.

Question 4

Explain the protein metabolism

Answer 4

Liver is source of plasma proteins incl. albumin, c-reactive protein, opsonin, complement proteins (C1-C9), carrier proteins (Tansferrin for iron) IGF binding protein (carries IGF-1)

Question 5

Explain the endocrine function

Answer 5

Synthesis of IGF-1 & 2 in response to growth hormone secretion.
Secretes hepcidin & thrombopoetin.
Converts vitamine D to cholecalciferol

Question 6

Explain the detoxification of the liver

Answer 6

Inactivates hormones, conjugation drugs & toxins for excretion.
Converses ammonea to urea. Cytochrome P450.

Question 7

What is the general function of the liver?

Answer 7

Protect the body by inactivating toxic materials.

Question 8

How are AA synthesised?

Answer 8

Transamination from alpha-ketoacid t o alpha-aminoacid.

Question 9

Explain the metabolism of AA.

Answer 9

Oxidative deamination, removes the NH3 group.

Question 10

What is the function of bile synthesis and secretion?

Answer 10

Fat absorption & excretion of bile pigments after haemaglobin breakdown.