Which organ produces bile and plays a major role in metabolism?

• A. Gallbladder
• B. Liver
• C. Pancreas
• D. Stomach

Answer: (B)

Bile production and metabolic processing are functions of the liver. Hepatocytes synthesize bile, a digestive fluid that emulsifies fats and makes their digestion by enzymes more efficient. Bile then travels through ducts to be stored in the gallbladder or released into the small intestine as needed. The gallbladder itself stores and concentrates bile but does not produce it. The pancreas provides digestive enzymes and bicarbonate, and the stomach mainly handles acid secretion and protein digestion. In addition to producing bile, the liver is a central metabolic hub, coordinating carbohydrate, lipid, and protein metabolism, glycogen storage and release, detoxification, and vitamin storage. Because it both makes bile and governs many metabolic processes, the liver best fits the description.