The portal vein is a major blood vessel in the body that carries blood from the digestive organs to the liver. This vein collects nutrient-rich blood from the stomach, intestines, spleen, and pancreas, allowing the liver to process these nutrients before they enter the general circulation. In the liver, the blood from the portal vein is filtered and metabolized. This process helps regulate blood sugar levels, detoxify harmful substances, and produce important proteins. The portal vein is essential for maintaining overall metabolic health and plays a crucial role in the body's digestive system.