How does liver and pancreas maintain homeostatis?
Liver:
1. Glucose Homeostasis: The liver plays a crucial role in regulating blood glucose levels. It takes up glucose from the blood when levels are high, storing it as glycogen through glycogenesis. When blood glucose levels drop, the liver breaks down glycogen into glucose and releases it into the bloodstream through glycogenolysis.
2. Detoxification: The liver acts as a detoxification center, processing and eliminating harmful substances from the body, including drugs, toxins, and metabolic waste products.
3. Lipid Metabolism: The liver synthesizes and breaks down lipids. It produces lipoproteins that transport lipids throughout the body and can store lipids as fat droplets.
4. Bile Production: The liver produces bile, which helps in the digestion and absorption of fats. Bile is stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine when needed.
5. Cholesterol Regulation: The liver regulates cholesterol levels by removing excess cholesterol from the blood and converting it into bile salts or storing it as cholesterol esters.
6. Synthesis and Storage: The liver synthesizes various proteins, including blood clotting factors, and stores essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, B12, and iron.
Pancreas:
1. Insulin and Glucagon Production: The pancreas secretes insulin and glucagon hormones. Insulin lowers blood glucose levels by promoting glucose uptake into cells and inhibiting glucose production in the liver. Glucagon raises blood glucose levels by stimulating the liver to convert glycogen into glucose and releasing glucose into the bloodstream.
2. Regulation of Blood Sugar: The pancreas monitors blood glucose levels and releases insulin or glucagon as needed to maintain homeostasis.
3. Digestive Enzymes: The pancreas secretes digestive enzymes such as amylase, lipase, and protease into the small intestine. These enzymes assist in the digestion of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, respectively.
4. Bicarbonate Production: The pancreas produces bicarbonate ions that neutralize stomach acid and create an alkaline environment optimal for enzymatic activity in the small intestine.
Together, the liver and pancreas contribute to maintaining various aspects of homeostasis, ensuring the proper functioning of the body's systems.