It connects alimentary canal to liver so that, after assimilation, the toxic materials can be removed from blood

The Function of the Hepatic Portal System

The hepatic portal system is a specialized network of blood vessels that carries nutrient-rich blood from the digestive organs to the liver. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the metabolic balance of the body by regulating the absorption, storage, and distribution of nutrients. Let's dive into the details of its function:

1. Absorption of Nutrients:
- The hepatic portal system begins its function in the digestive tract, where nutrients from food are broken down and absorbed.
- After digestion and absorption in the small intestine, the nutrients pass into the capillaries of the intestinal villi.
- These capillaries merge to form the hepatic portal vein, which carries the nutrient-rich blood to the liver.

2. Detoxification and Processing:
- The liver acts as a metabolic powerhouse by detoxifying harmful substances and processing nutrients.
- It filters out toxins, such as drugs, alcohol, and metabolic waste products, ensuring they do not enter the systemic circulation.
- The liver also metabolizes carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins, converting them into usable forms or storing them for later use.

3. Regulation of Blood Glucose:
- The hepatic portal system plays a crucial role in maintaining blood glucose levels.
- When blood glucose levels rise after a meal, the liver absorbs excess glucose from the portal vein and stores it as glycogen.
- Conversely, when blood glucose levels drop, the liver breaks down glycogen and releases glucose into the bloodstream to maintain a steady supply.

4. Storage and Distribution of Nutrients:
- The liver serves as a reservoir for various nutrients, storing excess glucose as glycogen and vitamins such as A, D, and B12.
- It also regulates the distribution of nutrients to different parts of the body based on their metabolic demands.
- The hepatic portal system ensures that the liver has first access to the absorbed nutrients before they are distributed to other organs.

5. Detoxification of Ammonia:
- The hepatic portal system helps remove toxic ammonia, a byproduct of protein metabolism.
- The liver converts ammonia into urea, which is then excreted by the kidneys.
- This process, known as the urea cycle, prevents the accumulation of toxic ammonia in the bloodstream.

In summary, the hepatic portal system allows the liver to perform essential functions such as detoxification, nutrient processing, regulation of blood glucose, and storage and distribution of nutrients. It plays a vital role in maintaining overall metabolic balance and ensuring the proper functioning of the body.