Breakdown functions of the liver

Question 1

What is deamination (simplified)?

Answer 1

Deamination occurs in the liver during protein metabolism (breakdown) It results in the production of ammonia which is toxic waste.

Question 2

What is detoxification?

Answer 2

The liver converts the ammonia produced by deamination into the urea: this is still waste but less toxic
Urea is transported in the blood and removed by the kidney in the urine
The liver breaks down alcohol, removing it from the blood
It also breaks down drugs like paracetemol

Question 3

What is bile?

Answer 3

Bile is produced by the liver as the result of a breakdown of red blood cells.
Bile is stored in the gallbladder until needed by the digestive system.
Bile emulsifies fats during the digestive process.