What supplies ammonia to liver?
## Core Concept
The liver receives ammonia from various sources, which is then processed and metabolized. Ammonia is a toxic product of nitrogen metabolism that needs to be converted into urea for excretion. The primary source of ammonia for the liver is the bloodstream.
## Why the Correct Answer is Right
The correct answer, , indicates that the liver receives ammonia from the hepatic portal vein. The hepatic portal vein carries blood from the gastrointestinal tract, spleen, and pancreas to the liver. This blood contains ammonia produced by the gut flora during the breakdown of proteins and other nitrogenous compounds. The liver then takes up this ammonia and uses it for the synthesis of urea through the urea cycle.
## Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect
* **Option A:** - This option is incorrect because it does not accurately represent a primary source of ammonia for the liver.
* **Option B:** - This option is incorrect because, although the kidneys do produce ammonia as a product of glutamine metabolism, they are not the primary source of ammonia supplied directly to the liver for its metabolic processes.
* **Option C:** - This option is incorrect because it does not accurately represent a known pathway for ammonia supply to the liver.
## Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact
A key point to remember is that the hepatic portal vein is crucial for transporting substances from the gastrointestinal tract to the liver for processing. Ammonia levels are particularly relevant in the context of liver disease and hepatic encephalopathy, where elevated ammonia levels can contribute to neurological symptoms.
## Correct Answer Line
**Correct Answer: B. Hepatic portal vein.**