Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 19, 2026
05:37
A 3D Quantification Technique for Liver Fat Fraction Distribution Analysis Using Dixon Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Published on: October 20, 2023
THE DISTRIBUTION OF FAT IN THE LIVER
The Journal of Experimental Medicine
|October 30, 2009
Summary
Nearly all livers contain fat, appearing as granules or globules. This study investigates the distinct characteristics and potential pathological origins of these two forms of liver fat.
Area of Science:
- Pathology
- Histology
- Hepatology
Background:
- Fatty substances are commonly observed in the liver.
- These substances manifest histologically as granules or globules of varying sizes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the distinct characteristics of granular and globular liver fat.
- To explore the potential pathological origins and relationships between these two fat morphologies.
Main Methods:
- Histological examination of liver tissue at autopsy.
- Observation and documentation of fat deposit morphology and location.
Main Results:
- Fatty substances in the liver present as granules (suggesting fatty degeneration) or globules (indicating excess fat storage).
- Granular fat is often central, while globular fat is typically peripheral, though exceptions exist.
- Intense globular fat is associated with various intoxications and cellular toxin production.
Conclusions:
- Granular and globular fat represent potentially different pathological processes.
- Further investigation is needed to determine the precise relationship and biochemical differences between granular and globular liver fat.
Related Concept Videos
01:17Gross Anatomy of the Liver
The liver, the largest gland within the human body, is a firm and reddish-brown organ. This wedge-shaped structure weighs approximately 1.5 kg and occupies a significant portion of the right hypochondriac and epigastric regions. It extends more to the right of the body's midline than to the left.
Located under the diaphragm, the liver is almost entirely ensconced within the rib cage, providing it with substantial protection. Except for the superior most bare area, the liver's surface is covered...
Located under the diaphragm, the liver is almost entirely ensconced within the rib cage, providing it with substantial protection. Except for the superior most bare area, the liver's surface is covered...
01:27Liver Histology
The microscopic anatomy of the liver is a complex and intricate system that comprises numerous structural units known as liver lobules, each of which is comparable in size to a sesame seed. These hexagonal structures consist of plates of liver cells or hepatocytes, which are characterized by their versatility and abundance of cellular apparatus like rough and smooth ER, Golgi apparatus, peroxisomes, and mitochondria.
Hepatocytes perform a variety of essential functions. They secrete...
Hepatocytes perform a variety of essential functions. They secrete...
01:02Hypodermis
The hypodermis (the subcutaneous layer or superficial fascia) is present directly below the dermis. It connects the skin to the underlying fascia (fibrous tissue) of the bones and muscles. It is not strictly a part of the skin, although the border between the hypodermis and dermis can be difficult to distinguish. The hypodermis consists of well-vascularized, loose, areolar connective tissue and adipose tissue, which functions as a mode of fat storage and provides insulation and cushioning for...
01:30Liver Physiology
The liver, an essential organ in the human body, performs over 200 vital functions that can be broadly categorized into metabolic, hematological, endocrine regulation, and bile production.
Metabolic Regulation:
The liver is the central organ involved in regulating blood composition. It stabilizes blood glucose levels, maintaining them within the range of 70–110 mg/dL. When these levels drop, the liver breaks down glycogen reserves and releases glucose into the bloodstream. It can also...
Metabolic Regulation:
The liver is the central organ involved in regulating blood composition. It stabilizes blood glucose levels, maintaining them within the range of 70–110 mg/dL. When these levels drop, the liver breaks down glycogen reserves and releases glucose into the bloodstream. It can also...
01:29Cholesterol: Significance and Regulation
Although not a source of energy, cholesterol plays a significant role as a foundational structure for bile salts, steroid hormones, and vitamin D, as well as being a crucial component of plasma membranes. Approximately 15% of blood cholesterol is derived from our diet, with the remainder synthesized from acetyl CoA by the liver and intestines. Cholesterol is eliminated from the body through its conversion into bile salts, which are eventually discarded in the feces.
Considering cholesterol and...
Considering cholesterol and...
01:24Lipid Absorption
Dietary triglycerides from chyme in the duodenum are mixed with bile salts produced by the liver to emulsify fats. As a result, large droplets are broken down into smaller ones, increasing the surface area for enzymatic action. Once emulsified, pancreatic lipases hydrolyze the triglycerides into free fatty acids and monoglycerides.
These breakdown products bind with bile salts and lecithin to form micelles, which quickly pass between microvilli to come in close contact with the apical...
These breakdown products bind with bile salts and lecithin to form micelles, which quickly pass between microvilli to come in close contact with the apical...