MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach‪)‬ MedSchoolCoach

DNA replication and the central dogma are fundamental concepts in molecular biology, and breaking down the different replication methods and the processes of transcription and translation is crucial for understanding how genetic information is expressed and passed on in cells.
In the first part of our episode, we'll break down DNA replication, exploring the concepts of conservative, semi-conservative, and dispersive replication, unraveling the mechanisms that drive this fundamental process.
Later, we'll focus on transcription and translation, delving into the nuances between prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. We'll uncover the mechanisms by which genetic information is transcribed from DNA to RNA and then translated into proteins, all while considering the diverse cellular locations where these processes take place.
Visit MedSchoolCoach.com for more help with the MCAT.
 
Jump into the conversation:
[01:07] Episode Overview
[01:54] DNA replication explanation
[05:53] Three phases of replication - initiation, elongation, and termination
[25:12] Central Dogma description
[25:50] Transcription Process
[36:31] The differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic transcription
[37:58] Translation Process

This podcast covers thermodynamics. First, I discuss the four laws of thermodynamics, as well as their application on the MCAT. Then, I break down enthalpy, Gibbs free energy, and entropy (briefly). Lastly, I cover the three types of heat transfer: conduction, convection, and radiation.
CORRECTION:
First Law of Thermodynamics is U =Q - W, I said 'U = Q + W'. For U = Q - W, W (work) is defined as work done BY the system on its surroundings. 
Please email me if you have any comments or concerns: MCATpodcast@medschoolcoach.com
To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.
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This podcast covers cell and tissue types. First, I discuss the difference between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. I further break down these categories and talk about the differences between animal, plant, fungi, protozoa, archaea, and bacterial cells. Next, I talk about each of the four main tissue types: epithelial, muscle, connective, and nervous. The bulk of this section covers epithelial tissue.
Please email me if you have any comments or concerns: MCATpodcast@medschoolcoach.com
To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.
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This podcast covers renal physiology. I start with a brief introduction to renal anatomy, then discuss in detail renal physiology. Next, I introduce three hormones (ADH, aldosterone, and ANP) that effect the kidneys and discuss their effects on the nephron. Lastly, I talk about measurements of renal function.
Please email me if you have any comments or concerns: MCATpodcast@medschoolcoach.com
To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.
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This podcast covers identity and psychosocial development. First, I will define a few terms you may see on the MCAT regarding identity. Next, I will breakdown the following theories of identity development: Erickson’s psychosocial development theory, Freud’s theory of psychosexual development, Paiget’s development theory, Kohlberg’s moral development theory, George Herbert Mead’s the I and the me, Cooley’s looking glass self, and Vygotsky’s social development theory.
Please email me if you have any comments or concerns: MCATpodcast@medschoolcoach.com
To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.
Thanks for listening!

This podcast covers the main functional groups you will see on the MCAT. First, I will cover different physical properties (boiling point and solubility) of compounds containing the 8 most common functional groups: alcohols, ethers, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids, esters, and amides. I then mention the difference in reactivities of different carboxylic acid derivatives. Last, I’ll introduce a few less common functional groups that you may see on the MCAT.
Please email me if you have any comments or concerns: MCATpodcast@medschoolcoach.com
To learn more about how MedSchoolCoach can help you along your medical school journey, visit us at Prospective Doctor.
Thanks for listening!