bodyorgan

A body organ is a distinct, organized structure within an animal or human body that performs one or more specific biological functions essential to survival and homeostasis. In multicellular organisms, organs operate within organ systems to coordinate physiology.

Most organs are composed of multiple tissue types that work together. The functional tissue, or parenchyma, carries out the organ’s main activity, while surrounding connective tissue, nerves, blood vessels, and other supporting tissue, called the stroma, provide structure and support.

Examples include the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, brain, stomach, skin, and intestines. Some organs have dual roles, such as the pancreas, which participates in digestion and hormone production.

Organs develop during embryogenesis from one or more of the three germ layers, guided by genetic programs and environmental interactions. Size, shape, and function can vary among individuals and species.

Organ function contributes to broader systems such as the circulatory, respiratory, digestive, nervous, endocrine, and immune systems. Proper organ function depends on adequate blood supply, innervation, and cellular health.

Clinical study of organs involves anatomy, physiology, histology, imaging, and pathology. Organ dysfunction can follow injury, disease, or aging and may be treated with medication, surgery, or transplantation in some cases.