MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)

In this episode, we explore key topics in genetics, including how sex-linked and autosomal traits are inherited. We'll break down inheritance patterns using real-world examples, like X-linked recessive diseases, and walk through Punnett square problems to show how these traits are passed down.
We also cover the regulation of gene expression, focusing on epigenetic changes such as DNA methylation and how genetic imprinting impacts which genes are expressed. You'll gain insight into transcriptional and post-transcriptional control mechanisms in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, along with the processes of DNA repair that maintain genetic stability.
Finally, we discuss important genetic lab techniques, such as PCR, blotting methods, and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and how they are used in gene analysis and diagnostics.
Visit MedSchoolCoach.com for more help with the MCAT.
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(01:49)  Inheritance patterns
(04:47) Solving X-linked inheritance problems using color blindness
(06:37) Overview of autosomal dominant and recessive traits
(08:08) Monohybrid and dihybrid crosses
(10:40) How epigenetic changes affect gene expression
(18:46) Transcriptional and translational control in prokaryotic operons
(23:03) Enhancers, silencers, and chromatin remodeling
(27:23) Post-transcriptional modifications
(31:52) DNA repair mechanisms
(40:14) Polymerase Chain Reaction
(44:06) What different blotting techniques are used for
(49:28) The FISH technique
(52:01) MCAT Advice of the Day

Mastering the concept of sociological groups can unlock a deeper understanding of how we interact and influence each other. On top of that, social interactions and group dynamics form the backbone of the Psych/Soc section of the MCAT, so mastering this topic is key to a good score. 
In this episode, host Sam Smith breaks down the essential topic of sociological groups. You’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of the different types of groups, the dynamics within organizations, bureaucracy, and social networks, and key concepts like groupthink, group polarization, and social loafing. We also explore how these concepts apply to real-world examples, from business partnerships to historical events like the Salem witch trials. 
Visit medschoolcoach.com for more help with the MCAT.
Jump into the conversation:
00:00 Intro
02:09 Types of social groups and social networks
08:06 Organizations and bureaucracy
10:17 Normative organizations
16:16 Group interactions and dynamics
20:08 Difference between group think and group polarization
27:57 Deindividuation, aka the ‘mob mentality’
31:57 Cultural groups and assimilation
34:22 MCAT Advice of the Day

In this episode, Sam Smith will discuss and help you understand the essential organic chemistry mechanisms and reactions you may encounter when taking the MCAT.
From nucleophilic substitution reactions like SN1 and SN2 to aldol condensation and oxidation and reduction of alcohols, Sam will cover the high-yield topics that are crucial for your test prep. He will also touch on key IR and NMR values that could appear on your exam. 
Visit medschoolcoach.com for more help with the MCAT.
Jump into the conversation: 
(00:00) Intro
(01:42) SN1 and SN2 nucleophilic substitution reactions, mechanisms, and key concepts
(03:18) Carbonyl substitution and addition reactions
(06:12) Introduction to aldol condensation reactions
(07:17) Overview of oxidation and reduction reactions
(10:09) Explanation of Fischer esterification and saponification
(12:51) Summary of elimination reactions (E1 and E2) and their distinguishing features.
(13:38) What numbers to know for IR and NMR

Understanding study design and research variables is crucial for mastering the MCAT and in medical research.

In this episode, host Sam Smith discusses the essentials of study design and research methods, from understanding independent and dependent variables to navigating the complexities of correlation, causation, and confounding variables. You’ll learn about the different types of studies, including experimental, observational, case-control, and cohort designs, and how they apply to MCAT questions. Plus, we’ll explore odds ratios, study validity, and the importance of specificity and sensitivity in diagnostic tests. This episode also covers common study limitations and biases, helping you sharpen your critical thinking skills for exam day.

Visit MedSchoolCoach.com for more help with the MCAT.
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(01:22) Types of variables seen in studies
(03:10) Correlation and Pearson correlation coefficient
(05:38) Causation vs. correlation
(07:16) Confounding variables: Examples and impact
(08:55) Odds ratio and study applications
(11:00) Validities in experiments
(16:20) Specificity vs. sensitivity in diagnostic tests
(19:13) Types of studies: Experimental and observational
(31:32) Single blind vs. double blind studies
(32:58) Randomized controlled trials (RCTs)
(35:57) Research limitations and study bias
(45:39) MCAT Advice of the Day

In this episode, we're diving deep into the nuanced aspects of metabolism that are essential yet less prominently featured on the MCAT. We'll cover gluconeogenesis, the pentose phosphate pathway, and ketone body generation—topics that, while subtle, play a crucial role in your comprehensive understanding of biochemistry. 
We'll explore how your body manages glucose levels, the functions of NADPH, how glycogen is synthesized and broken down, and the metabolic adaptations during periods of low glucose. 
Visit MedSchoolCoach.com for more help with the MCAT.
Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(01:54) Pentose phosphate pathway overview
(02:42) Functions of NADPH in the body
(03:35) Difference between NADPH and NADH
(04:34) Key points to know about the pentose phosphate pathway
(07:01) Insulin and glucagon: hormonal regulation of blood glucose
(09:00) Effects of insulin & glucagon on the body
(10:48) Glycogen synthesis & breakdown
(15:51) Glycogen debranching enzyme and breakdown of branched chains
(18:49) Bypassing irreversible steps in glycolysis during gluconeogenesis
(21:19) Regulation of gluconeogenesis
(22:25) Ketogenic amino acids and their role in ketone body formation
(24:04) MCAT advice of the day: reading journal articles