1. Metabolism:
- The liver plays a central role in metabolizing carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It helps convert stored glycogen into glucose for energy production and regulates the levels of glucose in the bloodstream.
- It metabolizes fats, breaking down fatty acids and producing energy.
- It synthesizes proteins and various other important compounds, such as albumin and clotting factors.
2. Detoxification:
- The liver acts as a detoxification center for the body, removing harmful substances and waste products.
- It filters out toxins, such as pesticides, heavy metals, and metabolic waste, from the bloodstream and either metabolizes or eliminates them from the body.
3. Bile Production:
- The liver produces bile, a greenish-yellow fluid that aid in digestion, particularly the breakdown and absorption of fats in the small intestine.
- Bile is stored in the gall bladder and released when needed during digestion.
4. Storage:
- The liver serves as a storage site for energy reserves in the form of glycogen and fats.
- During times of fasting or stress, it breaks down stored glycogen and releases glucose to maintain steady blood sugar levels.
5. Blood Filtration:
- The liver's role in blood filtration and purification is essential for removing old or damaged red blood cells, cellular waste, bacteria, and other foreign substances from the bloodstream.
6. Vitamin and Mineral Storage:
- The liver stores certain vitamins (A, D, and B12) and minerals (iron and copper) for future use and helps regulate their levels in the body.
7. Regulation of Body Temperature:
- Although not unique to birds, the liver also contributes to heat production, aiding in the regulation of body temperature.
Overall, the liver is a critical organ in the avian digestive and metabolic systems, essential for processing food, detoxifying substances, storing energy reserves, and maintaining balanced internal body conditions.