Final answer:
The lymphatic and digestive systems, particularly the liver, are responsible for removing foreign substances from the blood and assisting in the absorption of fats. Lacteals in the small intestine absorb fats, which are then transported to the bloodstream. The liver produces bile for fat breakdown and helps to detoxify blood.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Organ Systems Responsible for Foreign Substance Removal and Fat Absorption
Two organ systems are primarily responsible for removing foreign substances from the blood and aiding in fat absorption: the lymphatic system and the digestive system. The liver, as part of the digestive system, plays a pivotal role in detoxifying blood and in the digestion of fats. The liver produces bile required for the breakdown of fats in the duodenum and also processes vitamins and fatty acids. In addition, the liver synthesizes plasma proteins and filters blood.
The lymphatic system also contributes significantly to the process of fat absorption, particularly through structures known as lacteals. These are found in the villi of the small intestine and are responsible for absorbing digested lipids, which are then transported via the lymphatic vessels to the bloodstream.
The gallbladder supports the digestive system by storing and concentrating bile salts, aiding the liver in its digestive functions. Other organs, including the kidneys and spleen, are involved in filtering the blood, removing waste, and offering reservoirs for immune factors. However, it's the symbiotic functions of the liver and lymphatic system that directly handle both the removal of foreign substances from the blood and the absorption of fats.