MDCAT Biology

Study Notes

Biology accounts for 40% of the total marks in the MDCAT exam
It is a crucial subject for medical students as it forms the basis of medical sciences

Cell Biology
- Cell structure and function
- Cell membrane and transport
- Cell division (mitosis and meiosis)
Genetics
- Mendel's laws of inheritance
- DNA structure and replication
- Gene expression and mutation
Evolution
- Principles of evolution
- Natural selection and speciation
- Human evolution
Biodiversity
- Classification of living organisms
- Plant and animal kingdoms
- Ecosystems and ecology
Human Physiology
- Human body systems (skeletal, muscular, nervous, etc.)
- Functions and disorders of human body systems
Microbiology
- Introduction to microbiology
- Types of microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi)
- Microbial interactions and diseases

Focus on understanding key concepts and principles
Practice problem-solving and critical thinking
Review and reinforce weak areas regularly
Use online resources and practice tests to assess knowledge and identify areas for improvement

Biology constitutes 40% of the total marks in the MDCAT exam, making it a crucial subject for medical students.
It forms the foundation of medical sciences, highlighting its significance in the exam.

Cell structure encompasses cell membrane, cytoplasm, and nucleus.
Cell function involves metabolic processes, growth, and response to stimuli.
Cell membrane transport mechanisms include passive and active transport.
Cell division occurs through mitosis and meiosis, with distinct stages and processes.

Mendel's laws of inheritance describe the principles of genetic inheritance.
DNA structure is a double helix, with replication occurring through semiconservative replication.
Gene expression involves transcription and translation, with mutation leading to changes in gene function.

Classification of living organisms involves categorization into domains, kingdoms, and taxa.
Plant and animal kingdoms exhibit distinct characteristics and diversity.
Ecosystems and ecology encompass the interactions between organisms and their environment.

Human body systems include skeletal, muscular, nervous, circulatory, and digestive systems.
Functions of human body systems include support, movement, control, and regulation.
Disorders of human body systems, such as muscular dystrophy and Parkinson's disease, are important to understand.

Microbiology involves the study of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Microorganisms interact with their environment and can cause diseases.
Microbial interactions are crucial for human health and the environment.

Photosynthesis and respiration are essential metabolic processes.
Ecology and ecosystem services involve the interactions between organisms and their environment.
Homeostasis and feedback mechanisms regulate physiological processes.
Biological molecules, such as carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids, are essential for life.
Human health and disease are critical aspects of biology, with an understanding of the causes and mechanisms of disease.

Focus on understanding key concepts and principles rather than memorizing facts.
Practice problem-solving and critical thinking to develop analytical skills.
Regularly review and reinforce weak areas to ensure comprehensive understanding.
Utilize online resources and practice tests to assess knowledge and identify areas for improvement.