The human liver is a large, reddish-brown, wedge-shaped organ located in the upper right portion of the abdominal cavity, beneath the diaphragm and above the stomach. It is a vital organ responsible for a wide range of functions that are essential for maintaining homeostasis and overall health. Some of the primary functions of the liver include:
- Metabolism: The liver plays a key role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins. It helps to maintain blood glucose levels, break down fats, and synthesize essential proteins.
- Detoxification: The liver filters and detoxifies the blood, removing harmful substances such as drugs, alcohol, and environmental toxins. It also neutralizes and eliminates waste products produced during normal metabolism, such as ammonia and bilirubin.
- Bile production: The liver produces bile, a greenish-yellow fluid that aids in the digestion and absorption of fats. Bile is stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine during digestion.
- Storage of vitamins and minerals: The liver stores several essential vitamins (such as A, D, E, and K) and minerals (such as iron and copper), which are released into the bloodstream when needed.
- Production of blood clotting factors: The liver synthesizes proteins involved in blood clotting, including fibrinogen, prothrombin, and several other clotting factors.
- Immune function: The liver contains specialized immune cells called Kupffer cells, which help to identify and eliminate pathogens and foreign particles from the bloodstream.
- Hormone regulation: The liver breaks down and metabolizes hormones, helping to maintain hormonal balance in the body.
The liver has a remarkable ability to regenerate and repair itself, making it possible to recover from injuries and even loss of a significant portion of liver tissue. However, prolonged exposure to harmful substances, infections, or diseases can lead to liver damage or failure, which can be life-threatening. Common liver diseases include hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
