title: [Endotoxins and liver].
abstract: Endotoxins are macromolecules containing lipopolysacharides that form part of the bacteria wall. They are released only when the cell integrity is lost. They are suceptible to be absorved and pass to the portal circulation. However, in normal individuals endotoxins are not detected in peripheral blood, due to a filter effect of the liver. The possibility that liver failure could produce alterations in the detoxification of endotoxins is analyzed as well as the role of endotoxins to initiate or perpetuate liver damage. The biological effects of endotoxins on bile secretion, liver circulation, energy and carbohydrate metabolism in the liver are described.
mesh_terms: D001646:Bile / Q000378:metabolism; D050260:Carbohydrate Metabolism; D002473:Cell Wall / Q000032:analysis; D003593:Cytoplasm / Q000032:analysis; D004731:Endotoxins / Q000032:analysis / Q000378:metabolism*; D006439:Hemodynamics / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D008099:Liver / Q000378:metabolism*; D008102:Liver Circulation / Q000187:drug effects; D008107:Liver Diseases / Q000276:immunology
chemical_list: D004731:Endotoxins
vernacular_title: Endotoxinas e hígado.