Metabolic function of a liver

The liver performs numerous metabolic functions, including:

1. Carbohydrate Metabolism: It regulates blood glucose levels by storing excess glucose as glycogen (glycogenesis) and releasing glucose when needed (glycogenolysis). It can also synthesize glucose from non-carbohydrate sources like amino acids and glycerol (gluconeogenesis).

2. Lipid Metabolism: The liver synthesizes cholesterol, phospholipids, and lipoproteins. It also breaks down fatty acids for energy and converts excess carbohydrates and proteins into fats.

3. Protein Metabolism: It synthesizes most plasma proteins, such as albumin and clotting factors. The liver also deaminates amino acids, converting the nitrogenous waste into urea for excretion by the kidneys.

4. Bile Production: The liver produces bile, which aids in the digestion and absorption of fats in the small intestine.

5. Detoxification: It detoxifies harmful substances, such as drugs, alcohol, and metabolic waste products, converting them into less toxic forms that can be excreted.