Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) Practice Exam

Which organ is primarily responsible for detoxifying harmful substances in the body?

1. Kidney

2. Liver

3. Spleen

4. Pancreas

The correct answer is: Liver

The liver plays a crucial role in detoxifying harmful substances in the body. It is the primary organ for metabolizing drugs, alcohol, and various toxins that enter the bloodstream. The liver contains specialized cells that convert these harmful substances into less toxic forms, which can then be excreted from the body via bile or urine. This detoxification process involves various biochemical reactions, including oxidation, reduction, hydrolysis, and conjugation, which prepare the toxins for elimination. Additionally, the liver helps to regulate other metabolic functions, such as protein synthesis, enzyme production, and the storage of glycogen, thus highlighting its central role in maintaining overall metabolism and homeostasis. In comparison, the kidneys are primarily involved in filtering blood and excreting waste products through urine, while the spleen focuses on filtering blood and managing immune responses. The pancreas is involved in digestion and blood sugar regulation but does not play a significant role in detoxification. Therefore, the liver is the organ with the most pronounced responsibility for detoxifying harmful substances in the body.