What is the main organ responsible for detoxification in the body?

The liver is the main organ responsible for detoxification in the body due to its unique metabolic functions. It plays a crucial role in processing nutrients and drugs, converting toxins into harmless substances that can be excreted from the body. The liver performs this by breaking down harmful chemicals, such as alcohol and metabolic waste, through a series of enzymatic reactions, particularly those carried out by cytochrome P450 enzymes. Additionally, it synthesizes important proteins that facilitate this detoxification process, such as albumin and clotting factors.

While the kidneys also play a crucial role in filtering blood and excreting waste products through urine, their primary function is excretion rather than detoxification. The spleen is involved in filtering blood and recycling iron but does not detoxify substances. The pancreas primarily functions in digestion and insulin production, rather than detoxification processes. Therefore, the liver is clearly the primary organ dedicated to detoxifying various substances in the body.