Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

portal-system

Noun

/ˈpɔːrtəl ˈsɪstəm/

Definition

A portal system is a network of blood vessels that transports blood from one area of the body to another, often from capillaries to capillaries, bypassing the general circulation.

Examples

The hepatic portal system transports blood from the digestive organs to the liver.
In the portal system, blood flows from the intestines directly to the liver, allowing for nutrient uptake and detoxification.
Understanding the portal-system helps illustrate how the body maintains metabolic balance.

Meaning

In the context of human biology, a portal system refers specifically to a system of veins that carries blood to the liver from the gastrointestinal tract and spleen before it returns to the heart. It is essential for processing nutrients and detoxifying substances from the blood.