Liver

Question 1

What is the largest gland in the human body?

Answer 1

Liver

The liver weighs approximately 3-4 lbs and fills the upper right quadrant of the abdominopelvic cavity.

Question 2

What is the digestive function of the liver?

Answer 2

Produces and secretes bile

Bile is essential for the emulsification of fats in the small intestine.

Question 3

Name the three ducts associated with bile transport from the liver.

Answer 3

• Hepatic duct
• Cystic duct
• Common bile duct

These ducts are crucial for draining bile from the liver and gallbladder to the duodenum.

Question 4

What does the common bile duct do?

Answer 4

Drains bile from both hepatic and cystic ducts to the duodenum

It is formed by the union of the common hepatic duct and the cystic duct.

Question 5

What is the function of the liver in terms of blood cell management?

Answer 5

Destroys old blood cells and converts them to bile

This process helps in recycling components of hemoglobin.

Question 6

What pigment does the liver produce that is a breakdown product of hemoglobin?

Answer 6

Bilirubin

Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced during the destruction of old red blood cells.

Question 7

How does the liver help maintain glucose levels in the blood?

Answer 7

Maintains normal glucose level in blood

The liver plays a key role in glucose metabolism.

Question 8

What is one of the detoxification functions of the liver?

Answer 8

Detoxification of less harmful compounds

This function is vital for processing and eliminating toxins from the body.

Question 9

What types of nutrients does the liver store?

Answer 9

• Iron
• Copper
• Vitamins

The liver acts as a reservoir for essential nutrients.

Question 10

What does the liver produce that aids in blood clotting?

Answer 10

Blood proteins (e.g., Vitamin K)

These proteins are crucial for the coagulation process.

Question 11

What is the liver’s role in phagocytosis?

Answer 11

Filters and cleans blood

This function helps in removing pathogens and debris from the bloodstream.

Question 12

How many functions does the liver perform?

Answer 12

500 functions

The liver is essential for various metabolic processes and overall health.

Question 13

How many enzymes does the liver produce?

Answer 13

1000 enzymes

These enzymes are involved in numerous biochemical reactions necessary for metabolism.