Dive into MCAT Biology Pulse Episode 9 – a comprehensive 138-minute audio journey through cell division, development, and differentiation. From mitosis and meiosis to embryogenesis and aging, this high-yield episode covers everything you need to know for test day. Includes visuals, a downloadable study guide, and real-world applications.
Subscribe for full series: https://mdtalk.substack.com/s/mcat-biology-pulse
Welcome to Episode 9 of MCAT Biology Pulse, your deep-dive companion through the most critical high-yield topics for the Medical College Admission Test. In this nearly 2-hour and 18-minute audio episode, we explore the intricate biological processes that define life itself—how cells divide, specialize, and ultimately create a complex, functioning organism.
This episode is not just about memorizing stages of mitosis or gametogenesis. We connect these processes to real developmental biology—from the moment of fertilization through neurulation to stem cell regulation and senescence. We also tackle MCAT-relevant mechanisms behind cancer, gene regulation, biosignaling, apoptosis, and tissue regeneration.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
1. Cell Division:
Phases of the cell cycle: G0, G1, S, G2, M
Mitosis vs. Meiosis: Prophase to Telophase
Chromosome mechanics: centrioles, spindles, kinetochores
Cell cycle checkpoints and cancer biology
2. Gametogenesis & Reproductive Biology:
Sperm vs ovum: structure, production, and genetic impact
Fertilization, implantation, fetal development to birth
3. Embryogenesis & Germ Layers:
Blastulation, gastrulation, neurulation
Primary germ layers and what they give rise to
Role of the neural crest in development
4. Specialization & Differentiation:
Determination vs differentiation
Pluripotency and stem cell plasticity
Cell-cell communication and tissue formation
5. Developmental Regulation & Aging:
Gene regulation and biosignaling
Programmed cell death (apoptosis)
Regenerative species and limits of human healing
Senescence and its role in aging
Included with This Episode:
Visual Concepts: Downloadable slide visuals that follow along with major segments
Download Study Guide PDF: MCAT-style summary notes, key definitions, discussions, and quick quizzes
Virtual Voice Host Format: Narrated by Jennie and Dr. Rafael Moreno with segment recaps
Best For:
Pre-med students preparing for the MCAT
Visual and auditory learners
Review before test day or after covering college Biology textbooks and or MCAT Mastery Series Guide Review
Support the Series + Download Extras:
Get exclusive access to all visuals, bonus episodes, and annotated transcripts at:
https://mdtalk.substack.com/s/mcat-biology-pulse
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