MCAT BASICS+

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MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)

MedSchoolCoach
  • 4.8 (624)
  • SCIENCE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Join us as we detail MCAT exam topics. Each podcast covers several MCAT sections with lessons based on review material put out by the AAMC, such as practice tests and question banks. Sam also interviews MCAT tutors and experts who share tips on how premed students can raise their score to get into medical school.

  1. Biosignaling

    3D AGO

    Biosignaling

    In this episode, we focus on biosignaling and cover how cells communicate through systems like voltage-gated and ligand-gated ion channels, using real-world examples such as neuronal signaling and muscle contraction. We also break down the role of enzyme-linked receptors, specifically receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), and explore how these pathways are involved in cell growth and cancer. Additionally, we take a detailed look at G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) and their role in activating secondary messenger systems like cyclic AMP (cAMP). Visit MedSchoolCoach.com for more help with the MCAT. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (00:32) Overview of Biosignaling (01:05) Introduction to Biosignaling and its Importance (01:49) Stimulus-Response Concept: Fight or flight, glucose homeostasis, transcription regulation (02:34) Voltage-Gated Ion Channels: Activated by changes in membrane potential (03:29) Action Potential: Sodium channels and signal propagation (05:01) Ligand-Gated Ion Channels: Role in neuron-to-neuron signaling (06:01) Muscle Contraction: Acetylcholine's role in skeletal muscle contraction (07:29) Misconception on Calcium: Sodium initiates muscle cell depolarization, not calcium (08:33) Enzyme-Linked Receptors: Focus on receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) (09:39) RTKs and Cancer: How RTK signaling pathways are linked to cancer (12:00) G-Protein Coupled Receptors (GPCR): Structure and function of GPCRs (14:43) Adenylate Cyclase and cAMP: Role of GTP in activating adenylate cyclase and producing cAMP (18:10) Quiz Question 1: Ion specificity in potassium channels (22:54) Quiz Question 2: Hypertension treatment and G-protein pathways (25:00) Biosignaling as the foundation for cellular responses

    26 min
  2. Glycolysis

    5D AGO

    Glycolysis

    In this episode, guest host Alex Starks introduces the Metabolism series by examining glycolysis, a fundamental biochemical pathway for energy production. The discussion covers glucose digestion, the role of insulin and glucose transporters, and the step-by-step breakdown of glucose within cells. Alex also offers a detailed explanation of how glucose is processed to generate energy and outlines the key reactions involved. This episode provides a thorough overview of glycolysis offers valuable study strategies for mastering this topic on the MCAT. Visit MedSchoolCoach.com for more help with the MCAT. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (01:08) Overview of metabolism and starting the series (02:41) Digestion and absorption of glucose into the bloodstream (04:10) The liver’s role in glucose transport and GLUT2 (05:05) The role of insulin in glucose uptake by muscles and fat cells (07:48) Trapping glucose in the cell with glucose phosphorylation (09:32) Glycolysis Step-by-step breakdown of glycolysis (17:41) NADH and ATP production during glycolysis (22:30) Pyruvate and NADH fates in anaerobic and aerobic respiration (25:12) Quiz: Metabolism quiz and study tips for the MCAT

    30 min
  3. The Krebs Cycle

    MAR 26

    The Krebs Cycle

    One of the most fundamental biochemical processes is the Krebs cycle. This metabolic pathway plays a critical role in both the Chem Phys and Bio/Biochem sections of the MCAT, so understanding it is key. In this episode, our guest host, Alex Starks, walks us through the transformation of pyruvate into acetyl CoA via the Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Complex (PDC). We’ll explore how thioester bonds help transfer energy within the cycle, how acetyl CoA combines with oxaloacetate to form citrate, the difference between enzymes like synthetases and synthases, and how GTP is produced. We’ll also make connections to the electron transport chain and discuss how the TCA cycle influences blood pH through CO2 production. Visit medschoolcoach.com for more help with the MCAT. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (01:05) Recap of glycolysis and pyruvate (02:45) Pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC) (03:40) Role of acetyl CoA in the Krebs cycle (05:37) How citrate is formed  (07:17) How isocitrate is formed (10:00) How alpha-ketoglutarate is formed (13:42) How  succinate and GTP are formed (16:28) How succinate, fumarate and oxaloacetate are formed (18:23) Fumarate converted to malate (21:53) Recap of the Krebs cycle and ATP yield (25:00) Regulation of the Krebs cycle (26:16) Quiz

    32 min

  4. MAR 24

    Introducing MCAT Basics+

    MCAT Basics+ covers the highest yield science content tested on the MCAT in even greater depth and clarity, helping you study smarter and achieve your highest possible score. MCAT Basics+ is entirely ad-free, letting you stay completely focused. If you've enjoyed MCAT Basics, we genuinely believe you're going to love MCAT Basics Plus. Subscribe on Apple or Spotify to get access to the premium content today.

    2 min

  5. MAR 23 • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    Biochemistry 10 - Fatty Acid Metabolism

    In this episode of MCAT Basics+, we will cover the topics of Fatty Acid Lipolysis, Beta-Oxidation, and Fatty Acid Synthesis. These processes are crucial for comprehending the body's methods of fat metabolism and energy production. We will begin with Fatty Acid Lipolysis, the process that breaks down fats into fatty acids and glycerol. This step is essential for releasing stored energy from fat cells to supply the body with fuel. Following that, we will examine Beta-Oxidation, the mechanism by which fatty acids are converted into acetyl-CoA molecules. This conversion is a vital phase in generating ATP, the body's main energy currency. Lastly, we will discuss Fatty Acid Synthesis, the process through which the body constructs fatty acids from acetyl-CoA molecules. This mechanism plays a significant role in energy storage by converting excess energy into fat. By grasping these processes, you will acquire important knowledge about the body's fat metabolism and energy production strategies. Join us to learn more about Fatty Acid Lipolysis, Beta-Oxidation, and Fatty Acid Synthesis.

    19 min

  6. MAR 23 • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    Biochemistry 9 - Biochemistry Laboratory Techniques

    In this episode of the podcast, we will be discussing various techniques and methods used in molecular biology research. We will start by talking about Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), a powerful tool for amplifying DNA sequences. Following that, we will examine Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH), a technique used to visualize and map specific DNA sequences within cells. After that, we will cover Western, Southern, and Northern Blotting, techniques used to detect specific proteins, DNA, and RNA, respectively. We will also touch on Sanger Sequencing, a method for determining the nucleotide sequence of DNA. Lastly, we will discuss the technique of centrifugation, a process used to separate particles based on their size, shape, and density. By understanding these techniques, you will gain valuable insights into the tools and methods used in molecular biology research.

    29 min

  7. MAR 23 • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    Biochemistry 8 - Chemistry Laboratory Techniques

    In this podcast episode, we will cover a range of techniques employed in biochemistry and molecular biology for the extraction, purification, and analysis of proteins. We'll start with the extraction process, which involves separating proteins from cells or tissues using methods such as cell lysis and centrifugation. Next, we'll discuss the purification of proteins through crystallization and recrystallization, techniques that allow for the formation of crystals from which impurities can be removed. We'll then examine chromatography, a versatile separation technique that sorts proteins by size, charge, or their affinity for a specific ligand. Additionally, we'll review various gel electrophoresis methods, including SDS-PAGE, reducing SDS-PAGE, and native PAGE, which differentiate proteins based on size and charge. We'll also look at protein precipitation, a technique for isolating proteins from a solution by adding a precipitating agent. Further topics include isoelectric focusing, size exclusion chromatography, affinity chromatography, and ion-exchange chromatography, each a method for separating and purifying proteins based on distinct characteristics. By the conclusion of this episode, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of the diverse techniques utilized in the fields of biochemistry and molecular biology for working with proteins.

    41 min

  8. MAR 23 • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    Biochemistry 7 - Protein Structure and Function

    In this episode of the podcast, we will be discussing the levels of protein structure, the conformational stability of proteins, and nonenzymatic protein function. We will start by examining the different levels of protein structure, including primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary structures. Understanding these levels is crucial for comprehending how proteins fold and function. Next, we will cover the concept of conformational stability of proteins. This refers to the ability of a protein to maintain its folded structure under various conditions. Factors such as temperature, pH, and denaturing agents can impact the stability of proteins. Finally, we will discuss nonenzymatic protein function, which refers to the roles that proteins play in the cell beyond enzymatic activities. Proteins can have structural, regulatory, and signaling functions that are important for cellular processes. By the end of this episode, you will have a better understanding of proteins and how their structure and function are intricately linked.

    26 min
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About

Join us as we detail MCAT exam topics. Each podcast covers several MCAT sections with lessons based on review material put out by the AAMC, such as practice tests and question banks. Sam also interviews MCAT tutors and experts who share tips on how premed students can raise their score to get into medical school.

Information

  • Creator
    MedSchoolCoach
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    151
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © MedSchoolCoach
  • Show Website
    MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
  • Provider
    MEDSCHOOLCOACH LLC

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