The plasma membrane is primarily composed of a phospholipid bilayer interspersed with proteins, cholesterol, and carbohydrates. The phospholipid bilayer provides structural integrity and fluidity, while membrane proteins facilitate various functions such as transport, signaling, and cell recognition. Cholesterol molecules within the membrane modulate its fluidity and stability, and carbohydrate chains attached to proteins and lipids play roles in cell-cell recognition and adhesion.
