MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)

Amino acids are the building blocks of life and an essential topic for the MCAT.
In this episode, host Sam Smith takes us through the key concepts of amino acids, including their structures, naming conventions, and roles in protein formation. We’ll cover the differences between hydrophobic and hydrophilic amino acids, how to memorize single-letter abbreviations, and the importance of charged amino acids in physiological conditions. Additionally, Sam touches on mutations and how they can affect protein folding and enzyme function.
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Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(01:47) Amino acids naming conventions and abbreviations
(04:49) Hydrophobic vs. hydrophilic amino acids
(05:39) Charged and uncharged amino acids
(10:14) Explanation of mutation notation
(11:53) Mutations affecting the substrate pocket of enzymes
(13:15) Mutations impacting enzyme functionality
(15:58) Role of amino acids in protein tertiary structure
(17:15) Salt bridges and protein stability
(20:47) Quiz

This MCAT BAsics episode covers the muscular system. It begins with the differences and similarities between the three types of muscle (smooth, cardiac, and skeletal). Then, the podcast explores the basic structure of a skeletal muscle cell and the various organelles unique to this cell type, including the sarcolemma, sarcoplasm, myofibrils, sarcomeres, and more. Next, it discusses three main differences between Type 1 and Type 2 muscle fibers. Finally, it delves into muscle contraction, starting at the neuromuscular junction and ending with the shortening of sarcomeres, which causes muscle flexion.
 
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[00:00] Introduction
[02:09] Types of muscle - smooth, cardiac, skeletal
[04:49] The structure of a muscle cell in skeletal muscle
[15:11] The difference between Type 1 and Type 2 muscle fibers
[23:08] Understanding how a muscle contracts
[27:53] The Cross-Bridge cycle

This MCAT Basics episode covers fluid statics (fluids standing still). It begins with different fluid properties, including surface tension, vapor pressure, adsorption and absorption, adhesion and cohesion, and Henry's law. Next, it discusses several important fluid statics concepts: static fluid pressure, Pascal's law, gauge pressure vs absolute pressure, osmotic pressure, and buoyancy.
 
For information on fluid dynamics (moving fluids), skip to the 43:00 mark in the cardiovascular system + fluids podcast.
 
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[00:00] Introduction
[02:18] Properties of fluids
[07:10] Surface Tension
[11:54] Difference between adsorption and absorption
[14:09] Vapor Pressure
[19:07] Henry’s Law
[20:35] Static Fluid Pressure
[25:10] Pascal’s Law
[29:23] The difference between gauge pressure and absolute pressure.
[31:24] Osmotic Pressure
[44:35] Buoyancy

The electron transport chain is a fundamental pathway in biochemistry, critical for understanding the energy production that powers cellular function.
In this episode, guest host Alex Starks breaks down the intricate process of the electron transport chain (ETC). Building on previous discussions of glucose metabolism, Alex walks through the components that play key roles in the movement of electrons through complexes within the inner mitochondrial membrane. We also cover the functions of coenzyme Q and cytochrome c, as well as oxygen’s critical role in completing the process. 

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Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(02:11) Recap of glycolysis, pyruvate, and the Krebs cycle
(03:02) Location of the TCA cycle and ETC in the mitochondria
(04:22) Overview of NADH and FADH2 production
(05:38) Complex I: NADH dehydrogenase and coenzyme Q
(08:00) Complex II: Succinate dehydrogenase and FADH2
(11:15) Complex III: Cytochrome c reductase and the role of proton pumping
(14:32) Complex IV: Cytochrome c oxidase and oxygen
(18:14) The role of ATP synthase
(21:47) Total ATP yield from aerobic respiration
(26:00) How the electron chain is disrupted
(30:20) Uncouplers and their metabolic effects
(35:16) Quiz

In this episode, we delve into three common types of isomers that you are likely to encounter on the MCAT: structural isomers, geometric isomers, and stereoisomers.  We start by defining each type of isomer, providing clear and concise explanations to ensure a solid understanding. Next, we present common examples of each isomer type to illustrate their unique characteristics. Finally, we discuss real-world applications and scenarios where these isomers are relevant, particularly in the context of the MCAT. This material will appear in the Physical Chemistry section of the MCAT and may also be found in the Biochemistry section. Visit MedSchoolCoach.com for more help with the MCAT.
 
Jump Into the Conversation:
[00:00] Introduction
[02:06] Structural isomers
[06:03] Geometric isomers
[15:50] Three different kinds of stereoisomers
[16:30] Enantiomers
[17:44] Diastereomers
[18:46] Conformational isomers
[22:06] Key terms regarding stereoisomers
[26:54] Difference between absolute and relative configurations of stereoisomers
[28:22] Interesting example of stereoisomers in different sugars