The Endocrine System
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
In this episode, we’ll cover crucial aspects such as hormones, their origins and mechanisms of action, and the various structures within the endocrine system. We'll also decode complex cell-to-cell communication and distinguish between different hormone types—peptide, protein, steroid, and lipid-derived. Furthermore, we'll explore key endocrine disorders like diabetes and hyper- and hypogonadism, discussing their causes, symptoms, and relevance to the MCAT. In addition, we'll touch upon the functions and hormones of several glands, including the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal glands,...
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The Digestive System
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
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...
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Electrochemistry
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
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 for more help with the MCAT. Jump into the Conversation: [00:00] Introduction...
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Biological Membranes
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
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...
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Adenosine Triphosphate or ATP
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
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...
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Intelligence
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
In this episode, we explore the topic of intelligence, which is primarily featured in the psychology and sociology section of the MCAT. We cover several key theories, including entity vs. incremental theory, general intelligence theory, two-factor theory, multiple intelligences theory, Triarchic theory, CHC theory, and biological theories. Additionally, we examine the nature vs. nurture debate on hereditary intelligence factors and discuss how intelligence is measured. Visit for more help with the MCAT. Jump Into the Conversation: [00:00] Intro to Intelligence [02:47] Entity vs....
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Redox Reactions: Reduction and Oxidation
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
Redox reactions or reduction and oxidation are reactions in which electrons are simultaneously transferred from one chemical species to another. This episode begins with exploring this concept, including an in-depth look at oxidizing and reducing agents and the factors determining a compound's effectiveness as an oxidizing agent. It also covers the oxidation states of molecules and functional groups, common redox reagents in organic chemistry, and the role of redox in biological systems. The episode also addresses numerical concepts from general chemistry related to redox, such as...
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Sound and Hearing
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
In this episode, we focus on the physiology of sound and hearing. We begin by exploring sound-related concepts, including sound waves, pitch, ultrasound, and the decibel system. Next, we delve into the anatomy and physiology of the ear, providing a clear understanding of how we perceive sound. This material will appear in two of the four MCAT sections: the Bio/Biochem and Physics/Chemistry sections. Visit for more help with the MCAT. [00:00] Introduction [01:50] Physics of sound waves [06:07] Wavelength and frequency equation [08:08] Equation for the speed of sound [11:01] Overall...
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Fluid Statics
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
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 . Visit for more help with the MCAT. [00:00] Introduction [02:18] Properties of fluids [07:10] Surface...
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The Muscular System
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
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...
info_outlineThis MCAT Basics podcast is a short segment from the "Isomers" podcast.
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