What are the functions of hepatocytes?

Hepatocytes are primary liver cells that make up the majority of the liver by weight. These cells are functionally involved in everything and maintain normal body function. From processing nutrients to breaking down drugs and producing essential proteins, these cells carry out several important jobs.

The key hepatocytes functions includes:

• Carbohydrate metabolism: Hepatocytes regulate blood glucose level in the body. They aid in storing excessive glucose in the form of glycogen after meals and release it when the body needs more energy.
• Fat metabolism: Hepatocytes break down fatty acids and regulate cholesterol and lipid metabolism. These cells are key producers of bile that aid in digesting dietary fats.
• Protein synthesis: Hepatocyte cells aid in synthesis of essential proteins including albumin (maintains fluid balance in the blood). They produce fibronectin and other proteins that aid in blood clotting.
• Xenobiotic metabolism: Hepatocytes process medicines, alcohol, hormones, and other chemicals, often using cytochrome P450 system. They modify xenobiotic compounds and get eliminated from the body. One of the liver’s best-known roles is detoxification.
• Nitrogen waste excretion: Hepatocytes convert ammonia, which can be toxic at high levels, into urea through the urea cycle. Urea is then removed from the body through urine.
• Nutrient storage: Hepatocyte cells store a