Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a function of the liver?

1. Producing hormones

2. Clearing blood of toxins

3. Regulating blood levels of amino acids

4. Producing cholesterol

The correct answer is: Producing hormones

The liver performs various essential functions within the body, including detoxification, metabolism of nutrients, and the production of various substances that are vital for maintaining homeostasis. While the liver does produce some substances that can have hormonal effects, such as insulin-like growth factor and angiotensinogen, it is not primarily known for hormone production in the same way that glands like the pancreas or adrenal glands are. The clearing of blood toxins is one of the liver's crucial roles, as it metabolizes and detoxifies harmful substances, including drugs and alcohol. Additionally, the liver regulates blood levels of amino acids by controlling their synthesis and breakdown, maintaining balanced amino acid levels in the bloodstream. It is also responsible for producing cholesterol, which is necessary for cell membrane structure and the synthesis of certain hormones. In summary, while the liver may participate in some hormone-related functions, its primary roles lie in detoxification, regulating amino acids, and cholesterol production, making hormone production a less defining function for the liver compared to these other key activities.