What is the importance of liver and pancreas in digestive system list substances they produce their function?
The liver and pancreas are two vital organs in the digestive system, each playing a crucial role in the digestion, absorption, and utilization of nutrients. Here's an overview of their importance and the substances they produce, along with their functions:
Liver:
1. Production of Bile: The liver produces bile, a greenish-yellow fluid that aids in the digestion and absorption of fats. Bile is stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine when needed.
2. Detoxification: The liver is responsible for detoxifying various harmful substances, including drugs, alcohol, toxins, and metabolic waste products, which are then excreted from the body.
3. Storage of Glycogen: The liver stores excess glucose as glycogen through a process called glycogenesis. When the body requires energy, the liver breaks down glycogen and releases glucose into the bloodstream.
4. Synthesis of Plasma Proteins: The liver synthesizes various essential plasma proteins, such as albumin, fibrinogen, and clotting factors, which are vital for maintaining blood volume, regulating osmotic pressure, and ensuring proper blood clotting.
5. Cholesterol Regulation: The liver regulates cholesterol levels in the body by removing excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and converting it into bile salts or excreting it from the body.
6. Production of Urea: The liver converts excess nitrogenous waste, mainly ammonia, into urea, which is then excreted by the kidneys.
Pancreas:
1. Production of Digestive Enzymes: The pancreas produces and releases several digestive enzymes into the small intestine, including pancreatic amylase, lipase, protease, and nucleases. These enzymes help break down carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and nucleic acids into smaller molecules that can be easily absorbed.
2. Production of Bicarbonate Ions: The pancreas secretes bicarbonate ions, which help neutralize the acidic chyme (food mixture) entering the small intestine from the stomach. This creates a favorable pH environment for the optimal activity of digestive enzymes.
3. Regulation of Blood Glucose: The pancreas plays a crucial role in blood glucose regulation through the production of hormones insulin and glucagon. Insulin lowers blood glucose levels by facilitating the uptake and utilization of glucose by body tissues. Glucagon raises blood glucose levels by stimulating the release of glucose from the liver into the bloodstream.
4. Emulsification of Fats: The pancreas secretes substances that aid in the emulsification of fats, allowing enzymes to break down fats more efficiently.
Overall, the liver and pancreas are essential for digestion, nutrient absorption, detoxification, and maintaining the body's overall metabolic balance. Dysfunction or diseases affecting these organs can lead to various digestive and systemic health issues.