Which of the following is NOT a function of the liver?

The liver serves multiple essential functions in the body, and while it does produce and secrete bile, it is not responsible for storing bile. Bile is stored in the gallbladder, which releases it into the small intestine to aid in digestion, particularly in the emulsification of fats. The liver’s role in this process is to synthesize bile and then send it to the gallbladder for storage, rather than storing bile itself.

In regard to the other functions: the liver does store vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and certain minerals like iron and copper. It also plays a critical role in the breakdown and recycling of red and white blood cells, ensuring that the components are reused or eliminated properly. Additionally, the liver is pivotal in drug detoxification, metabolizing various substances and toxins to make them less harmful or more easily excreted from the body. These functions highlight the liver's significance in maintaining overall health and metabolic balance.