Wikijunior:Human Body/Digestive System/Livers
Livers "is a vital organ present in vertebrates and some other animals. It has a wide range of functions, including detoxification, protein synthesis, and production of biochemicals necessary for digestion. The liver is necessary for survival; there is currently no way to compensate for the absence of liver function in the long term, although new liver dialysis techniques can be used in the short term. This gland plays a major role in metabolism and has a number of functions in the body, including glycogen storage, decomposition of red blood cells, plasma protein synthesis, hormone production, and detoxification. It lies below the diaphragm in the abdominal-pelvic region of the abdomen. It produces bile, an alkaline compound which aids in digestion via the emulsification of lipids.
The liver's highly specialized tissues regulate a wide variety of high-volume biochemical reactions, including the synthesis and breakdown of small and complex molecules, many of which are necessary for normal vital functions.
Terminology related to the liver often starts in hepar- or hepat- from the Greek word for liver, hēpar (ἧπαρ, root hepat-, ἡπατ-)." [1]
What do they do?[edit | edit source]
Our livers do three main things which helps and supports our body: digests food, makes proteins, and gets rids of bad stuff. All the blood that goes through our intestines goes to our liver where we get rid of the bad blood cells. So, all your blood cells have to go through your liver before it goes to your heart. Your liver is kind of like the protector of your body. The liver decides what gets kept out, what gets patted down and what's allowed to go through your body.
Where are they?[edit | edit source]
Below the Esophagus, few inches below your nipple.