What is the function of Kupffer cells in the liver?

Kupffer cells are specialized macrophages located in the liver and play a crucial role in the body's immune response and the maintenance of homeostasis. Their primary function is to remove debris and pathogens from the blood. They achieve this by phagocytosing, or engulfing, pathogens, dead cells, and other foreign material that circulates through the liver. This helps to filter the blood, effectively acting as the liver's defense system against infections and contributing to immune surveillance. By doing so, Kupffer cells help maintain the overall health of the liver and prevent systemic infections.

The other functions mentioned, such as secreting bile, metabolizing carbohydrates, and storing glycogen, are performed by different liver cells and structures. Bile secretion is primarily the responsibility of hepatocytes, while glycogen storage is also a function of hepatocytes. Metabolism of carbohydrates involves a complex interaction of various hepatocytes and enzymes, rather than the specific role of Kupffer cells.