Liver Physiology 5 Flashcards
1
Q
What is the micro-anatomy of the liver like?
A
Hexagonal lobules have a central hepatic vein, and portal triads in each corner of the hexagon.
2
Q
What are 7 main functions of the liver?
A
- detoxification
- immune functions
- synthesis of clotting factors, proteins, enzymes, glycogen, fats
- bile production
- energy storage (glycogen & fats)
- regulation of fat metabolism
- regeneration
3
Q
How is the liver regulated?
A
- endocrine glands (pancreas, adrenal, thyroid)
- nerves
4
Q
Where are triglycerides stored?
A
- adipocytes
- hepatocytes
- other sites
5
Q
What are 4 functions of lipids?
A
- energy reserve
- part of cell membranes
- involved in inflammatory cascades
- hormone metabolism
6
Q
Where is the main storage site of glycogen?
A
Liver
7
Q
How are lipids transported?
A
- free fatty acids are transported as physical complexes with plasma albumin
- triglycerides are transported within plasma lipoproteins
- dietary fat is secreted from the intestine in chylomicrons (lipoproteins that transport triglycerides for storage)
- dietary cholesterol is transported to the liver by chylomicron remnants
