This model was proposed by S.J. Singer and G.L. Nicolson in 1972, and it describes the cell membrane as a fluid, dynamic structure composed of:
* Phospholipid bilayer: This forms the basic framework of the membrane, with the hydrophilic heads facing outwards and the hydrophobic tails facing inwards.
* Proteins: These are embedded within the phospholipid bilayer, and they perform a variety of functions, including transport, communication, and enzymatic activity.
* Cholesterol: This helps to maintain membrane fluidity and stability.
The "fluid" aspect refers to the fact that the phospholipids and proteins can move laterally within the membrane, and the "mosaic" aspect refers to the patchy distribution of proteins within the membrane.
