The Liver Flashcards
What are the liver functions?
Breaking down and detoxifying poisonous substances (alcohol/ ethanol)Breaking down excess amino acids into urea (for the blood to carry to the kidneys, where it will be taken out)Breaking down lactic acid from anerobic respiration into glucose.Produces bile- stored in the gallbladder
What is the role of bile?
It is alkali so neutralises stomach acid, providing optimum pH for the digestive enzymes in the small intestineIt emulsifies fat, increasing its surface area so enzymes can break it down at a faster rate
What happens if the liver becomes damaged and cannot produce bile?
Won’t produce bile- digestive enzymes will be denatures, food will not be digested by the small intestine. Causes the person to lose weightThe emulsification of fats will become slower, less glycerol and fatty acids will be absorbed into the blood. Causes the person to lose weight.
What happens if the liver is damaged and cannot break down lactic acid?
Lactic acid may accumulate in the blood, as it is toxic it will poison the body. A build up in muscle cells will cause cramps, muscle fatigue and pain. Oxygen debt will be prolonged
What happens if the liver is damaged in terms of amino acids?
Excess amino acids won’t be made into urea. Ammonia formed from the amino acids will be toxic. Amino acids will lower the pH of the body, causing proteins like enzymes and hormones to possibly become denatured.
What happens if the liver is damaged by alcohol or toxins?
The liver will be unable to break down the toxins, body cells will be poisoned as toxins accumulate, causing pain and jaundice.
What happens if the liver is damaged in terms of blood glucose?
It will be unable to respond to insulin so excess glucose will not be stores as glycogen in the liver, resulting in high blood sugar levels, and possibly diabetes.
