Question

multiple choice question
the phospholipid bilayer is stabilized by ______.

○ cholesterol
○ extracellular matrix
○ protein
○ glycoproteins

Explanation:

To determine what stabilizes the phospholipid bilayer, we analyze each option:

• Cholesterol: It is known to be present in the phospholipid bilayer and helps in stabilizing it by regulating membrane fluidity and providing structural support.
• Extracellular matrix: This is a structure outside the cell and does not stabilize the phospholipid bilayer (which is part of the cell membrane).
• Protein: While proteins have various functions in the cell membrane (like transport, signaling), they do not primarily stabilize the phospholipid bilayer structure.
• Glycoproteins: These are proteins with carbohydrate groups attached, mainly involved in cell - cell recognition and not in the stabilization of the phospholipid bilayer.

Answer:

A. cholesterol