Lipid metabolism and the liver

Generally, lipid metabolism in liver hepatocytes can be summarized by three processes: (1) acquisition of lipids, including uptake of lipids and fatty acids, and fatty acid synthesis (de novo lipogenesis); (2) lipid storage, including triglyceride synthesis and the formation of lipid droplets; and (3) lipid consumption, including fatty acid degradation (lipolysis), β-oxidation, and the secretion of very low-density lipoproteins. Many liver diseases are accompanied by disorders in lipid metabolism, with the latter often involving the clinical condition of these patients. This chapter summarizes current understanding of hepatic lipid metabolism, including cholesterol and phospholipid metabolism, and associated factors. In addition, we make reference to metabolic disturbance in some liver diseases.