Functions of the liver

Nature of science:

Educating the public on scientific claims—scientific studies have shown that high-density lipoprotein could be considered “good” cholesterol. (5.2)

• The liver removes toxins from the blood and detoxifies them.
• Components of red blood cells are recycled by the liver.
• The breakdown of erythrocytes starts with phagocytosis of red blood cells by Kupffer cells.
• Iron is carried to the bone marrow to produce hemoglobin in new red blood cells.
• Surplus cholesterol is converted to bile salts.
• Endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus in hepatocytes produce plasma proteins.
• The liver intercepts blood from the gut to regulate nutrient levels.
• Some nutrients in excess can be stored in the liver.

Applications and skills:

• Application: Causes and consequences of jaundice.
• Application: Dual blood supply to the liver and differences between sinusoids and capillaries.

• Excessive alcohol consumption may cause liver cirrhosis. Are attitudes to drugs and alcohol an example of something that is relative to culture? Is all knowledge dependent on culture?

Aims:

• Aim 6: Temporary mounts of hepatocytes can be prepared from fresh liver.
• Aim 8: Given the pressure on health resources, especially the availability of organs for transplant, should an alcoholic be allowed a liver transplant?