What type of cells are primarily responsible for the metabolic function of the liver?

Liver cells, known as hepatocytes, are the primary cells responsible for the metabolic functions of the liver. Hepatocytes play a crucial role in various essential processes, including the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids, as well as the detoxification of harmful substances. They are involved in synthesizing and secreting bile, producing plasma proteins such as albumin and clotting factors, and regulating glucose levels through gluconeogenesis and glycogen storage.

In contrast, Kupffer cells are specialized macrophages located in the liver that contribute to the immune response and the clearance of pathogens and dead cells, but they do not perform the metabolic functions characteristic of hepatocytes. Bile duct cells are involved in the transport of bile, while endothelial cells line the liver's blood vessels and are also not primarily responsible for metabolic processes. Thus, the hepatocytes are the key players in liver metabolism, highlighting their vital role in overall body homeostasis.