Which organ is responsible for breaking down toxins such as waste amino acids?

The liver is the primary organ responsible for detoxifying the body, including the breakdown of waste products such as amino acids. It plays a crucial role in metabolizing nutrients and drugs, as well as processing the by-products of metabolism. In particular, the liver converts harmful substances into less toxic forms that can be easily excreted from the body.

For instance, when amino acids are broken down, they can produce ammonia, a toxic compound. The liver converts ammonia into urea, which is then sent to the kidneys for excretion. This detoxification process is vital for maintaining overall health and preventing the accumulation of harmful substances in the bloodstream.

While the kidneys are involved in filtering blood and removing waste products, their primary role is not the breakdown of toxins, but rather the excretion of waste through urine. The lungs are involved in gas exchange rather than detoxification, and the heart's function is primarily related to circulating blood throughout the body. Therefore, the liver's specialized functions make it the correct answer when discussing the breakdown of toxins like waste amino acids.