ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Proteins produced and secreted by the liver

The liver is a special organ in our body that produces and secretes some special things called proteins. These proteins are like little workers who help our body do different things.

For example, some proteins help our blood to clot so we don't bleed too much when we get a cut. Other proteins help our body fight off germs and keep us healthy. Some proteins even help our body break down food so we can get all the vitamins and minerals we need.

The liver makes several different kinds of proteins, like albumin or fibrinogen. These proteins are made by cells in the liver called hepatocytes. Once they are made, they travel through the blood to other parts of the body where they are needed.

When there is something wrong with the liver, it may not be able to make enough of these important proteins. This can cause problems like bleeding disorders, liver disease or infections.

So, proteins made and secreted by the liver are like special helpers that we need to keep our body healthy and strong.