Which adaptation to the plasma membrane allows mammals to hibernate in subzero temperatures without their plasma membranes freezing?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Increasing both cholesterol and the number of double covalent bonds in phospholipids helps maintain membrane fluidity at low temperatures, preventing freezing during hibernation. Cholesterol acts as a buffer, preventing the membrane from becoming too rigid or too fluid, while unsaturated (double-bonded) fatty acids prevent close packing of phospholipids, lowering the freezing point.

Which Adaptation to the Plasma Membrane Allows Mammals to Hibernate