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D.3 Functions of the liver

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Description

Nature of science:
Educating the public on scientific claims—scientific studies have shown that high-density lipoprotein could be considered “good” cholesterol. (5.2)
Understandings:
  • 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.
 Theory of knowledge:
  • 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?

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