Metabolizes fats, carbohydrates, and proteins

Metabolizes drugs (inactivates or makes it easier for the body to excrete them)

Stores, metabolizes, and activates vitamins

Stores minerals, glycogen, and triglycerides

Manufactures proteins needed for various body functions, such as blood clotting

Produces bile acids needed for digestion

Detoxifies harmful products manufactured within the body (such as ammonia) or consumed by the animal (such as poisons)

Influences immune responses

Helps develop blood cells (extramedullary hematopoiesis)