MCAT Basics

Health Admissions IQ
  • 4.8 (630)
  • Science
  • Updated Weekly

MCAT Basics breaks down the high-yield concepts you need to know for the MCAT in clear, approachable lessons. Hosted by Sam Smith and presented by Health Admissions IQ, each episode explores topics across the MCAT sciences and behavioral sciences, with content aligned to the AAMC exam framework and commonly tested concepts. Whether you’re building your foundation or reinforcing key material, MCAT Basics helps make complex MCAT topics easier to understand and review.

MCAT BASICS+

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  1. 1d ago

    Common Hormone Axes

    In this episode, we'll explore three crucial hormone axes: the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone (RAAS) system. We'll decode the complex interplays among the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and various peripheral organs, focusing on how these hormone systems regulate everything from stress responses and reproductive functions to blood pressure and fluid balance. We'll break down the HPA axis and its pivotal role in stress response, featuring hormones like corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and cortisol. Next, we’ll navigate through the HPG axis to understand the hormonal orchestration behind testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone production. Lastly, we’ll zero in on the RAAS system, demystifying its essential function in blood pressure regulation and electrolyte balance. Visit www.HealthAdmissionsIQ.com for more help with the MCAT.  Jump into the conversation: [00:00] Introduction to the MCAT Basics Podcast with host, Sam Smith [03:11] Hypothalamus: brain section, regulates hormones, monkey bread. [08:57] Hypothalamus releases hormones to stimulate pituitary gland. [12:12] Cortisol is a crucial stress response hormone. [13:12] Steroid hormones need carrier proteins for transport. [17:05] Hypothalamic pituitary gonadal axis involves important structures. [21:01] Hypothalamus releases gonadotropin hormone for sex development. [27:14] Sex hormones regulate important body functions through feedback. [28:31] Juxtaglomerial cells respond to changes in blood pressure. [33:20] Angiotensin III and IV stimulate aldosterone release. [35:36] Renin angiotensin system increases sodium, blood pressure.

    Common Hormone Axes

  2. 6d ago

    Adenosine Triphosphate or ATP

    In this episode, we’ll talk about  ATP or adenosine triphosphate. We will begin with a detailed examination of ATP's structure and composition as a nucleotide, followed by an explanation of the metabolic pathways involved in its production—both aerobic and anaerobic. We will also cover the pivotal process of ATP hydrolysis, emphasizing its energy release and crucial role in various cellular processes, including the sodium-potassium pump and protein phosphorylation. Additionally, we will address the limitations of ATP supplementation and the broader implications of ATP in biological transport and biosynthesis processes. This episode promises to provide a clear and thorough understanding of ATP's essential functions, ensuring you are well-prepared for your MCAT studies. Visit www.HealthAdmissionsIQ.com for more help with the MCAT.   Jump Into the Conversation: [00:00] Intro into Adenosine Triphosphate, otherwise known as ATP [2:09] The structure of ATP  [06:48] Where and how ATP is produced [24:04] Thermodynamics of ATP [35:16] The functions of ATP [35:31] Sodium-potassium pump or the sodium-potassium ATPase [39:45] Protein kinases and protein phosphorylation [42:48] ATP binding cassette transporter protein or ABC transporter proteins

    Adenosine Triphosphate or ATP

  3. Sep 29

    Biological Membranes

    This MCAT Basics podcast covers biological membranes. First, the podcast introduces a few topics regarding membranes: what they are, how they are formed, their presence in the cell, and cell-to-cell junctions. Second, it addresses transport through the membrane, including simple diffusion, active vs. passive transport, and transport membrane proteins. Next, the discussion moves to membrane proteins, including receptors, transporters, and the differences between integral, peripheral, and lipid-anchored proteins. Finally, the podcast covers membrane dynamics, such as endocytosis and the transmembrane system, and discusses membrane potential.   Visit ⁠www.HealthAdmissionsIQ.com⁠ for more help with the MCAT.   Jump into the Conversation: [00:00] Intro into MCAT Basics [01:08] Introducing Biological Membranes [01:53] What is a membrane and what is its structure [15:33] Cell to cell junctions and the involvement of plasma membranes [17:16] Transport through a membrane [26:49] Membrane proteins [31:05] Membrane dynamics and potential

    Biological Membranes

  4. Sep 24

    Electrochemistry

    In this episode of MCAT Basics, we’ll cover Electrochemistry. We start with the role of salt bridges in electrochemical cells and cover the intricacies of cell notation. We’ll also discuss how ions maintain charge balance, the importance of reduction and oxidation potentials, and how these elements come together in galvanic and electrolytic cells. We’ll also take a closer look at concentration cells and the critical Nernst equation, which helps us understand cell potentials under non-standard conditions. Visit www.HealthAdmissionsIQ.com for more help with the MCAT. Jump into the Conversation: [00:00] Introduction to MCAT Basics [01:09} Introduction to Electrochemistry [03:20] Concentration cell: same metal, different ion concentrations [13:05] Visualizing galvanic cells using royal analogy [22:19] Reduction potential, oxidation potential, cell potential explained [30:47] Electrochemical cells, Gibbs free energy, and Nernst equation [41:16] Electroplating and electric current to coat metals [45:40] Electrochemistry in Nanobiology: measuring oxidation of molecules

    Electrochemistry

  5. Sep 22

    The Digestive System

    In this episode, we'll break down the intricate processes of nutrient digestion and absorption, from the mechanical and chemical digestion in the stomach to the vital role of the small and large intestines. We'll also discuss the regulatory mechanisms involving hormones and nervous innervation and the essential structures like the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. And don't forget, this episode is packed with tips on everything you need to know about this high-yield topic for the MCAT. So grab your notes, get comfortable, and let's embark on this fascinating journey through the digestive system. Stay tuned for a deep dive into how our bodies turn food into the vital nutrients we need to thrive. Visit www.HealthAdmissionsIQ.com for more help with the MCAT. Jump into the conversation: [00:00] Introduction to the MCAT Basics [05:11] Digestive system involves mechanical and chemical processes. [06:55] Food travels through digestive system over time. [10:48] Small intestines: duodenum, jejunum, ileum, enterocytes crucial. [14:38] Sphincters in digestive system control food movement. [16:26] Podcast discusses physiology of digestive system structures. [20:57] Salivary enzyme breaks down starch into glucose. [23:46] Muscle contractions propel food through digestive system. [27:40] Lipase enzyme breaks down fats in stomach. [29:11] Stomach doesn't absorb nutrients, protects itself. [32:55] Enzymes linked to cells for carbohydrate breakdown. [38:05] Bile emulsifies fat, chylomicrons enter lymphatic system. [41:35] Gut bacteria metabolize cellulose, form fatty acids. [45:02] Living without large intestine; regulation of digestion. [46:50] CCK stimulates pancreatic juice release, important digestion. [49:57] Prepare for MCAT and excel with us!

    The Digestive System

  6. Sep 21 • Subscribers Only

    Organic Chemistry 4 - Organic Chemistry Mechanisms

    In this episode of MCAT Basics+, we will be discussing reaction mechanisms, with a specific focus on SN1 and SN2 carbonyl substitution and addition. We will examine the complexities of these mechanisms and their significance in organic chemistry. Additionally, we will cover aldol condensation, Fischer esterification, and saponification, three crucial reactions frequently tested on the MCAT. Grasping the mechanisms behind these reactions is vital for achieving success on the exam. By the conclusion of this episode, you will possess a thorough understanding of these reaction mechanisms and their relevance to organic chemistry. Tune in to gain insights into these concepts and discover how they can assist you in excelling on the MCAT.

  7. Sep 21 • Subscribers Only

    Organic Chemistry 2 - Functional Groups

    In this episode of MCAT Basics+, we will cover a variety of functional groups commonly found in organic chemistry. We will discuss alcohols, carboxylic acids and their derivatives, ketones and aldehydes, ethers, amines, imines, and enamines. Additionally, we will talk about boiling points, solubility, and reactivity comparisons among these functional groups. We will also mention less common functional groups and their unique properties. By understanding the characteristics of each functional group, you will be better equipped to analyze and predict chemical reactions in organic chemistry. Join us as we simplify the complexities of organic molecules and their functional groups in this informative episode.

  8. Sep 21 • Subscribers Only

    Organic Chemistry 3 - Isomerization

    In this episode of MCAT Basics+, we will be covering the intriguing topic of isomers. We will focus on the various kinds of isomers present in chemistry, including structural isomers, geometric isomers, and stereoisomers. Our discussion will start with structural isomers, which are molecules that share the same molecular formula but have different structural configurations. This difference in arrangement can lead to distinct physical and chemical properties for each isomer. Following this, we will move on to geometric isomers, a category of stereoisomer that exhibits different spatial orientations due to the presence of double bonds or rings within the molecule. Grasping the concept of geometric isomers is crucial for predicting molecular interactions. We will then proceed to stereoisomers, which maintain identical atom connectivity but vary in their spatial organization. This group includes enantiomers, which are mirror images of each other, and diastereomers, which are non-mirror image stereoisomers. Concluding our discussion, we will address conformational isomers, which are molecules capable of altering their shape through rotation around single bonds. These isomers can adopt different forms and energies, resulting in distinctive properties and behaviors. By the conclusion of this episode, you will gain a comprehensive insight into the various types of isomers and their importance in the realm of chemistry.

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About

MCAT Basics breaks down the high-yield concepts you need to know for the MCAT in clear, approachable lessons. Hosted by Sam Smith and presented by Health Admissions IQ, each episode explores topics across the MCAT sciences and behavioral sciences, with content aligned to the AAMC exam framework and commonly tested concepts. Whether you’re building your foundation or reinforcing key material, MCAT Basics helps make complex MCAT topics easier to understand and review.

Information

  • Creator
    Health Admissions IQ
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    144
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Health Admissions IQ
  • Show Website
    MCAT Basics
  • Provider
    MEDSCHOOLCOACH LLC

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