A Roadmap to MCAT® Content

in Biochemistry Textbooks

Association of
American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

About the Roadmap

The publishers of the textbooks listed in the primary focus of this roadmap is on parentheses. A small number of subtopics
this publication have provided a “roadmap” textbooks covering biochemistry. Where have course abbreviations indicated in
to where the MCAT Foundational Concepts a biology topic is included, it is listed as parentheses. In those cases, you are
and Content Categories can be found in BIO in the Topic column. For a full list of responsible only for learning the
their publications, by indicating the chapter all content tested on the exam, go to the subtopics as they are taught in the
and/or specific page number(s). What’s on the MCAT Exam? interactive tool. course(s) indicated.
To use this Biochemistry Roadmap, The abbreviations in parentheses indicate The left two columns in each table indicate
locate the topic you’re interested in and the courses in which undergraduate which topics are covered in introductory
read across the columns to see which students at many college and universities biology (darker green shading) and which
textbook covers that topic and whether learn about the topics and associated are covered in first-semester biochemistry
the topic is covered in introductory subtopics. The course abbreviations are: (lighter green shading).
biology and/or first-year biochemistry • BC: first-semester biochemistry If you are a publisher of an introductory
courses. Any concepts that don’t appear textbook on biochemistry and would like
in the roadmap are covered only in • BIO: two-semester sequence
of introductory biology to add your publication and information
introductory biology. to this reference document, please
This Biochemistry Roadmap emphasizes • GC: two-semester sequence email mcatprep@aamc.org.
biochemistry, a topic introduced to the of general chemistry
The Medical College Admission Test®
MCAT exam in 2015. However, we found • OC: two-semester sequence (MCAT®) is a program of the Association
that the biochemistry textbooks include of organic chemistry of American Medical Colleges.
some of the biology content covered on In preparing for the MCAT exam, you
the MCAT exam. When that was the case, will be responsible for learning the topics
we included information about biology and associated subtopics at the levels at
topics, too. Please note that not all of which they are taught at many colleges
the biology topics are included because and universities in the courses listed in

A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks is copyright © 2017 by the Association of American Medical Colleges. All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced
or distributed in any format without prior written permission from the AAMC. All references to textbooks and corresponding content information were self-reported by the publishers.
The AAMC has not verified the information for accuracy or relevance. This information is not intended to prescribe a program of study for the MCAT exam, nor does use of this information
guarantee success on the exam.

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A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Contents
About the Roadmap ............................................................................................................................................i

Textbooks Included in the Roadmap .................................................................................................................1

Foundational Concept 1......................................................................................................................................2

Content Category 1A: Structure and function of proteins and their constituent amino acids..............................2
Content Category 1B: Transmission of genetic information from the gene to the protein...................................5
Content Category 1C: Transmission of heritable information from generation
to generation and the processes that increase genetic diversity.......................................................................9
Content Category 1D: Principles of bioenergetics and fuel molecule metabolism.............................................14

Foundational Concept 2....................................................................................................................................17

Content Category 2A: Assemblies of molecules, cells, and groups of cells within singlecellular
and multicellular organisms...........................................................................................................................17
Content Category 2B: The structure, growth, physiology, and genetics of prokaryotes and viruses...................21
Content Category 2C: Processes of cell division, differentiation, and specialization...........................................23

Foundational Concept 3....................................................................................................................................25

Content Category 3A: Structure and functions of the nervous and endocrine systems
and ways in which these systems coordinate the organ systems....................................................................25
Content Category 3B: Structure and integrative functions of the main organ systems......................................28

Foundational Concept 4....................................................................................................................................36

Content Category 4B: Importance of fluids for the circulation of blood, gas movement, and gas exchange......36

Foundational Concept 5....................................................................................................................................37

Content Category 5A: Unique nature of water and its solutions.......................................................................37
Content Category 5C: Separation and purification methods............................................................................38
Content Category 5D: Structure, function, and reactivity of biologically-relevant molecules..............................39
Content Category 5E: Principles of chemical thermodynamics and kinetics.......................................................42

Foundational Concept 6....................................................................................................................................44

Content Category 6A: Sensing the environment..............................................................................................44

Foundational Concept 7....................................................................................................................................46

Content Category 7A: Individual influences on behavior..................................................................................46

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A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Textbooks Included in Roadmap

Textbook Link
Boundless Biology, by Boundless. Mountain View, CA: Creative Commons: Accessed April 15, 2017. https://www.boundless.com/biology
Boundless Physiology, by Boundless. Mountain View, CA: Creative Commons: Accessed April 15, 2017. https://www.boundless.com/physiology
Fundamentals of Biochemistry, 5th ed., by D Voet, JG Voet, and CW Pratt.
Hoboken, NJ: Wiley, 2016.

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A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Foundational Concept 1: Biomolecules have unique properties that

determine how they contribute to the structure and function of cells,
and how they participate in the processes necessary to maintain life.
Content Category 1A: Structure and function of proteins and their constituent amino acids
Macromolecules formed from amino acids adopt well-defined, three-dimensional structures with chemical properties that are responsible for their
participation in virtually every process occurring within and between cells. The three-dimensional structure of proteins is a direct consequence of
the nature of the covalently-bonded sequence of amino acids, their chemical and physical properties, and the way in which the whole assembly
interacts with water.

Enzymes are proteins that interact in highly regio- and stereo-specific ways with dissolved solutes. They either facilitate the chemical transformation
of these solutes, or allow for their transport innocuously. Dissolved solutes compete for protein-binding sites, and protein conformational dynamics
give rise to mechanisms capable of controlling enzymatic activity.

The infinite variability of potential amino acid sequences allows for adaptable responses to pathogenic organisms and materials. The rigidity
of some amino acid sequences makes them suitable for structural roles in complex living systems.

Content in this category covers a range of protein behaviors which originate from the unique chemistry of amino acids themselves.
Amino acid classifications and protein structural elements are covered. Special emphasis is placed on enzyme catalysis including
mechanistic considerations, kinetics, models of enzyme-substrate interaction, and regulation.

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A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 1A: Structure and function of proteins and their constituent amino acids

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Amino Acids (BC, OC) Ch. 3 Ch. 4
Description Biological Macromolecules Amino Acids,
• Absolute configuration at the α position pp. 80-96
• Amino acids as dipolar ions
• Classifications
»» Acidic or basic
»» Hydrophobic or hydrophilic
Reactions
• Sulfur linkage between a pair of cysteines
• Peptide linkage: polypeptides and proteins
• Hydrolysis

Protein Structure (BIO, BC, OC)* Ch. 3 Ch. 5

Structure Biological Macromolecules Proteins:
• 1° structure of proteins Primary Structure,
• 2° structure of proteins pp. 97-130
• 3° structure of proteins; role of proline, cystine,
hydrophobic bonding Ch. 6
• 4° structure of proteins (BIO, BC) Proteins: Three-
Conformational stability Dimensional Structure,
• Denaturing and folding pp. 131-179
• Hydrophobic interactions
• Solvation layer (entropy) (BC)
Separation techniques
• Isoelectric point
• Electrophoresis

Nonenzymatic Protein Function (BIO, BC) Ch. 7

• Binding Protein Function: Myoglobin
• Immune system and Hemoglobin, Muscle
• Motors Contraction and Antibodies,
pp. 180-220
*If a chapter is listed in this row, the abbreviations apply to all sections listed below. (continued)

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A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 1A: Structure and function of proteins and their constituent amino acids (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Enzyme Structure and Function (BIO, BC) Ch. 6 Ch.11
• Function of enzymes in catalyzing biological reactions Metabolism Enzymatic Catalysis,
• Enzyme classification by reaction type pp. 322-360
• Reduction of activation energy
• Substrates and enzyme specificity
• Active-Site Model
• Induced-Fit Model
• Mechanism of catalysis
»» Cofactors
»» Coenzymes
»» Water-soluble vitamins
• Effects of local conditions on enzyme activity

Control of Enzyme Activity (BIO, BC)* Ch. 6 Ch. 12

• Kinetics Metabolism Enzyme Kinetics, Inhibition,
»» General (catalysis) and Control,
»» Michaelis-Menten pp. 361-401
»» Cooperativity
• Feedback regulation
• Inhibition—types
»» Competitive
»» Noncompetitive
»» Mixed (BC)
»» Uncompetitive (BC)
• Regulatory enzymes
»» Allosteric enzymes
»» Covalently modified enzymes
»» Zymogen
*If a chapter is listed in this row, the abbreviations apply to all sections listed below.

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A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 1B: Transmission of genetic information from the gene to the protein
Biomolecules and biomolecular assemblies interact in specific, highly-regulated ways to transfer sequence information between biopolymers in
living organisms. By storing and transferring biological information, DNA and RNA enable living organisms to reproduce their complex components
from one generation to the next. The nucleotide monomers of these biopolymers, being joined by phosphodiester linkages, form a polynucleotide
molecule with a “backbone” composed of repeating sugar-phosphate units and “appendages” of nitrogenous bases. The unique sequence of
bases in each gene provides specific information to the cell.
DNA molecules are composed of two polynucleotides that spiral around an imaginary axis, forming a double helix. The two polynucleotides
are held together by hydrogen bonds between the paired bases and van der Waals interactions between the stacked bases. The pairing between
the bases of two polynucleotides is very specific, and its complementarity allows for a precise replication of the DNA molecule.
The DNA inherited by an organism leads to specific traits by dictating the synthesis of the biomolecules (RNA molecules and proteins) involved in
protein synthesis. While every cell in a multicellular organism inherits the same DNA, its expression is precisely regulated such that different genes
are expressed by cells at different stages of development, by cells in different tissues, and by cells exposed to different stimuli.
The topics included in this Content Category concern not only the molecular mechanisms of the transmission of genetic information from the gene
to the protein (transcription and translation), but also the biosynthesis of the important molecules and molecular assemblies that are involved in
these mechanisms. The control of gene expression in prokaryotes and eukaryotes is also included.
Broadly speaking, the field of biotechnology uses biological systems, living organisms, or derivatives thereof, to make or modify products or
processes for specific use. The biotechnological techniques emphasized in this Content Category, however, are those that take advantage of the
complementary structure of the double-stranded DNA molecule to synthesize, sequence, and amplify them, and to analyze and identify unknown
polynucleotide sequences. Included within this treatment of biotechnology are those practical applications which directly impact humans, such as
medical applications, human gene therapy, and pharmaceuticals.
Content in this category covers the biopolymers including ribonucleic acid (RNA), deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), proteins, and the biochemical
processes involved in carrying out the transfer of biological information from DNA.

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A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 1B: Transmission of genetic information from the gene to the protein

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Nucleic Acid Structure and Function (BIO, OC, BC)* Ch. 3 Ch. 3
• Description Biological Macromolecules Nucleotides, Nucleic Acids,
• Nucleotides and nucleosides and Genetic Information,
»» Sugar phosphate backbone pp. 42-79
»» Pyrimidine, purine residues Ch. 14
• Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA): double helix, DNA Structure
Ch. 23
Watson–Crick model of DNA structure and Function
Nucleotide Metabolism,
• Base pairing specificity: A with T, G with C pp. 803-830
• Function in transmission of genetic information (BIO)
• DNA denaturation, reannealing, hybridization

DNA Replication (BIO) Ch. 14 Ch. 25

• Mechanism of replication: separation of strands, DNA Structure DNA Replication, Repair
specific coupling of free nucleic acids and Function and Recombination,
• Semiconservative nature of replication pp. 879-937
• Specific enzymes involved in replication
• Origins of replication, multiple origins in eukaryotes
• Replicating the ends of DNA molecules

Repair of DNA (BIO) Ch. 14 Ch. 25

• Repair during replication DNA Structure DNA Replication,
• Repair of mutations and Function Repair, and Recombination,
pp. 909-915

Genetic Code (BIO) Ch. 15 Ch. 27

• Central Dogma: DNA → RNA → protein Genes and Proteins Protein Synthesis:
• The triplet code Section 1,
• Codon-anticodon relationship The Genetic Code,
• Degenerate code, wobble pairing pp. 983-987
• Missense, nonsense codons
• Initiation, termination codons
• Messenger RNA (mRNA)
*If a chapter is listed in this row, the abbreviations apply to all sections listed below. (continued)

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A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 1B: Transmission of genetic information from the gene to the protein (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Transcription (BIO) Ch. 15 Ch. 26
• Transfer RNA (tRNA); ribosomal RNA (rRNA) Genes and Proteins Transcription and RNA
• Mechanism of transcription processing,
• mRNA processing in eukaryotes, introns, exons Ch. 16 pp. 938-987
• Ribozymes, spliceosomes, small nuclear Gene Expression
ribonucleoproteins (snRNPs), small nuclear RNA (snRNAs)
• Functional and evolutionary importance of introns

Translation (BIO) Ch. 15 Ch. 27 Protein Synthesis:

• Roles of mRNA, tRNA, rRNA Genes and Proteins Section 4, Translation,
• Role and structure of ribosomes pp. 1004-1023
• Initiation, termination co-factors
• Posttranslational modification of proteins

Eukaryotic Chromosome Organization (BIO) Ch. 15 Ch. 24

• Chromosomal proteins Genes and Proteins Nucleic Acid Structure:
• Single copy vs repetitive DNA Section 5,
• Supercoiling Eukaryotic Chromosome
• Heterochromatin vs euchromatin Structure,
• Telomeres, centromeres pp. 867-877

Control of Gene Expression in Prokaryotes (BIO) Ch. 16 Ch. 28

• Operon Concept, Jacob-Monod Model Gene Expression Regulation of
• Gene repression in bacteria Gene Expression:
• Positive control in bacteria Section 2,
Regulation of Prokaryotic
Gene Expression,
pp. 1043-1051
(continued)

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A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 1B: Transmission of genetic information from the gene to the protein (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Control of Gene Expression in Eukaryotes (BIO) Ch. 16 Ch. 28
• Transcriptional regulation Gene Expression Regulation of Gene
• DNA binding proteins, transcription factors Expression:
• Gene amplification and duplication Section 3, Regulation
• Posttranscriptional control, basic concept of splicing of Eukaryotic Gene
(introns, exons) Expression,
• Cancer as a failure of normal cellular controls, pp. 1052-1079
oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes
• Regulation of chromatin structure
• DNA methylation
• Role of noncoding RNAs

Recombinant DNA and Biotechnology (BIO) Ch. 17 Ch. 25

• Gene cloning Biotechnology DNA Replication, Repair,
• Restriction enzymes and Genomics and Recombination:
• DNA libraries Section 6, Recombination,
• Generation of cDNA pp. 916-937
• Hybridization
• Expressing cloned genes
• Polymerase chain reaction
• Gel electrophoresis and Southern blotting
• DNA sequencing
• Analyzing gene expression
• Determining gene function
• Stem cells
• Practical applications of DNA technology: medical
applications, human gene therapy, pharmaceuticals,
forensic evidence, environmental cleanup, agriculture
• Safety and ethics of DNA technology

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A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 1C: Transmission of heritable information from generation to generation

and the processes that increase genetic diversity
The information necessary to direct life functions is contained within discrete nucleotide sequences transmitted from generation to generation
by mechanisms that, by nature of their various processes, provide the raw materials for evolution by increasing genetic diversity. Specific sequences
of deoxyribonucleic acids store and transfer the heritable information necessary for the continuation of life from one generation to the next.
These sequences, called genes—being part of longer DNA molecules—are organized, along with various proteins, into biomolecular assemblies
called chromosomes.
Chromosomes pass from parents to offspring in sexually-reproducing organisms. The processes of meiosis and fertilization maintain a species’
chromosomes count during the sexual life cycle. Because parents pass on discrete heritable units that retain their separate identities in offspring,
the laws of probability can be used to predict the outcome of some, but not all, genetic crosses.
The behavior of chromosomes during meiosis and fertilization is responsible for most of the genetic variation that arises each generation.
Mechanisms that contribute to this genetic variation include independent assortment of chromosomes, crossing over, and random
fertilization. Other mechanisms, such as mutation, random genetic drift, bottlenecks, and immigration, exist with the potential to affect
the genetic diversity of individuals and populations. Collectively, the genetic diversity that results from these processes provides the raw
material for evolution by natural selection.
The content in this category covers the mechanisms by which heritable information is transmitted from generation to generation, and the
evolutionary processes that generate and act upon genetic variation.

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A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 1C: Transmission of heritable information from generation to generation and the processes that increase genetic diversity

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Evidence that DNA is Genetic Material (BIO) Ch. 3
Nucleotides, Nucleic Acids,
and Genetic Information:
Section 3, Overview of
Nucleic Acid Function,
pp. 50-53

Mendelian Concepts (BIO) Ch. 12 Ch. 28

• Phenotype and genotype Mendel’s Experiments Reproduction,
• Gene and Heredity Chromosomes, and Meiosis
• Locus
• Allele: single and multiple
• Homozygosity and heterozygosity
• Wild type
• Recessiveness
• Complete dominance
• Co-dominance
• Incomplete dominance, leakage, penetrance, expressivity
• Hybridization: viability
• Gene pool
(continued)

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A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 1C: Transmission of heritable information from generation to generation and the processes that increase genetic diversity (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Meiosis and Other Factors Affecting Genetic Ch. 11 Ch. 28 Ch. 25
Variability (BIO) Meiosis and Sexual Reproduction, DNA Replication, Repair,
• Significance of meiosis Reproduction Chromosomes, and Meiosis and Recombination,
• Important differences between meiosis and mitosis pp. 879-937
• Segregation of genes
»» Independent assortment
»» Linkage
»» Recombination
§§ Single crossovers
§§ Double crossovers
§§ Synaptonemal complex
§§ Tetrad
»» Sex-linked characteristics
»» Very few genes on Y chromosome
»» Sex determination
»» Cytoplasmic or extranuclear inheritance
• Mutation
»» General concept of mutation—error in DNA sequence
»» Types of mutations: random, translation error,
transcription error, base substitution, inversion,
addition, deletion, translocation, mispairing
»» Advantageous vs deleterious mutation
»» Inborn errors of metabolism
»» Relationship of mutagens to carcinogens
• Genetic drift
• Synapsis or crossing-over mechanism for increasing
genetic diversity
(continued)

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A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 1C: Transmission of heritable information from generation to generation and the processes that increase genetic diversity (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Evolution (BIO) Ch. 18 Ch. 1
• Natural selection Evolution and the Origin Introduction to the
»» Fitness concept of Species Chemistry of Life,
»» Selection by differential reproduction pp. 1-22
»» Concepts of natural and group selection
»» Evolutionary success as increase in percent
representation in the gene pool of the next generation
• Speciation
»» Polymorphism
»» Adaptation and specialization
»» Inbreeding
»» Outbreeding
»» Bottlenecks
• Evolutionary time as measured by gradual random
changes in genome

Principles of Bioenergetics (BC, GC) Ch. 12

• Bioenergetics and thermodynamics Enzyme Kinetics,
»» Free energy/Keq Inhibition, and Control,
§§ Equilibrium constant pp. 361-401
§§ Relationship between the equilibrium constant
and ΔG°
»» Concentration
§§ Le Châtelier’s Principle
»» Endothermic and exothermic reactions
»» Free energy: G
§§ Spontaneous reactions and ΔG°
• Phosphoryl group transfers and ATP
»» ATP hydrolysis ΔG << 0
»» ATP group transfers
• Biological oxidation-reduction
»» Half-reactions
»» Soluble electron carriers
»» Flavoproteins
(continued)

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A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 1C: Transmission of heritable information from generation to generation and the processes that increase genetic diversity (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Carbohydrates (BC, OC) Ch. 8
• Description Carbohydrates,
»» Nomenclature and classification, common names pp. 221-244
»» Absolute configuration
»» Cyclic structure and conformations of hexoses
»» Epimers and anomers
• Hydrolysis of the glycoside linkage
• Monosaccharides
• Disaccharides
• Polysaccharides

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A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 1D: Principles of bioenergetics and fuel molecule metabolism

Living things harness energy from fuel molecules in a controlled manner in order to sustain all of the processes responsible for maintaining life.
Cell maintenance and growth is energetically costly. Cells harness the energy stored in fuel molecules, such as carbohydrates and fatty acids,
and convert it into smaller units of chemical potential known as adenosine triphosphate (ATP).
The hydrolysis of ATP provides a ready source of energy for cells that can be coupled to other chemical processes in order to make them
thermodynamically favorable. Fuel molecule mobilization, transport, and storage are regulated according to the needs of the organism.
The content in this category covers the principles of bioenergetics and fuel molecule catabolism. Details of oxidative phosphorylation including
the role of chemiosmotic coupling and biological electron transfer reactions are covered, as are the general features of fatty acid and glucose
metabolism. Additionally, regulation of these metabolic pathways, fuel molecule mobilization, transport, and storage are covered.
1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Glycolysis, Gluconeogenesis, and the Pentose Ch. 7 Ch. 23 Ch. 14
Phosphate Pathway (BIO, BC)* Cellular Respiration Nutrition Metabolism Introduction to
• Glycolysis (aerobic), substrates and products and Temperature Metabolism,
»» Feeder pathways: glycogen, starch metabolism Regulation pp. 442-477
• Fermentation (anaerobic glycolysis)
• Gluconeogenesis (BC) Ch. 15
• Pentose phosphate pathway (BC) Glucose Catabolism,
• Net molecular and energetic results pp. 448-522
of respiration processes

Principles of Metabolic Regulation (BC)* Ch. 6 Ch. 23 Ch. 14

• Regulation of metabolic pathways (BIO, BC) Metabolism Nutrition Metabolism Introduction to
»» Maintenance of a dynamic steady state and Temperature Metabolism,
• Regulation of glycolysis and gluconeogenesis Ch. 7 Regulation pp. 442-477
• Metabolism of glycogen Cellular Respiration
• Regulation of glycogen synthesis and breakdown Ch. 15
»» Allosteric and hormonal control Glucose Catabolism,
• Analysis of metabolic control pp. 448-522

Ch.16
Glycogen Metabolism
and Gluconeogenesis
*If a chapter is listed in this row, the abbreviations apply to all sections listed below. (continued)

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A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 1D: Principles of bioenergetics and fuel molecule metabolism (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Citric Acid Cycle (BIO, BC)* Ch. 7 Ch. 23 Ch. 17
• Acetyl-CoA production (BC) Cellular Respiration Nutrition Metabolism Citric Acid Cycle,
• Reactions of the cycle, substrates and products and Temperature pp. 558-587
• Regulation of the cycle Regulation
• Net molecular and energetic results
of respiration processes

Metabolism of Fatty Acids and Proteins (BIO, BC)* Ch. 23 Ch. 14

• Description of fatty acids (BC) Nutrition Metabolism Introduction to
• Digestion, mobilization, and transport of fats and Temperature Metabolism,
• Oxidation of fatty acids Regulation p. 442-477
»» Saturated fats
»» Unsaturated fats
• Ketone bodies (BC)
• Anabolism of fats (BIO)
• Nontemplate synthesis: biosynthesis of lipids
and polysaccharides (BIO)
• Metabolism of proteins (BIO)

Oxidative Phosphorylation (BIO, BC)* Ch. 7 Ch. 14

• Electron transport chain and oxidative phosphorylation, Cellular Respiration Introduction to
substrates and products, general features of the pathway Metabolism,
• Electron transfer in mitochondria pp. 442-477
»» NADH, NADPH
»» Flavoproteins
»» Cytochromes
• ATP synthase, chemiosmotic coupling
»» Proton motive force
• Net molecular and energetic results of respiration
processes
• Regulation of oxidative phosphorylation
• Mitochondria, apoptosis, oxidative stress (BC)
*If a chapter is listed in this row, the abbreviations apply to all sections listed below. (continued)

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A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 1D: Principles of bioenergetics and fuel molecule metabolism (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Hormonal Regulation and Integration Ch. 14
of Metabolism (BC) Introduction to Metabolism,
• Higher-level integration of hormone structure pp. 442-477
and function
• Tissue-specific metabolism Ch. 15
• Hormonal regulation of fuel metabolism Glucose Catabolism,
• Obesity and regulation of body mass pp. 448-522

Ch.16
Glycogen Metabolism
and Gluconeogenesis,
pp. 523-557

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A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Foundational Concept 2: Highly-organized assemblies of molecules, cells,

and organs interact to carry out the functions of living organisms.
Content Category 2A: Assemblies of molecules, cells, and groups of cells within singlecellular
and multicellular organisms
The processes necessary to maintain life are executed by assemblies of molecules, cells, and groups of cells, all of which are organized into
highly-specific structures as determined by the unique properties of their component molecules. The processes necessary to maintain life
require that cells create and maintain internal environments within the cytoplasm and within certain organelles that are different from their
external environments.
Cell membranes separate the internal environment of the cell from the external environment. The specialized structure of the membrane,
as described in the fluid mosaic model, allows the cell to be selectively permeable and dynamic, with homeostasis maintained by the constant
movement of molecules across the membranes through a combination of active and passive processes driven by several forces, including
electrochemical gradients.
Eukaryotic cells also maintain internal membranes that partition the cell into specialized regions. These internal membranes facilitate cellular
processes by minimizing conflicting interactions and increasing surface area where chemical reactions can occur. Membrane-bound organelles
localize different processes or enzymatic reactions in time and space.
Through interactions between proteins bound to the membranes of adjacent cells, or between membrane-bound proteins and elements
of the extracellular matrix, cells of multicellular organisms organize into tissues, organs, and organ systems. Certain membrane-associated
proteins also play key roles in providing identification of tissues or recent events in the cell’s history for purposes of recognition of “self”
versus foreign molecules.
The content in this category covers the composition, structure, and function of cell membranes; the structure and function of the membrane-bound
organelles of eukaryotic cells; and the structure and function of the major cytoskeletal elements. It covers the energetics of and mechanisms by
which molecules, or groups of molecules, move across cell membranes. It also covers how cell–cell junctions and the extracellular matrix interact
to form tissues with specialized functions. Epithelial tissue and connective tissue are covered in this category.

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A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 2A: Assemblies of molecules, cells, and groups of cells within singlecellular and multicellular organisms

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Plasma Membrane (BIO, BC)* Ch. 5 Ch. 4 Ch. 9
• General function in cell containment Structure and Function Tissues Lipids and Biological
• Composition of membranes of Plasma Membranes Membranes,
»» Lipid components (BIO, BC, OC) pp. 245-292
§§ Phospholipids (and phosphatids)
§§ Steroids Ch. 10
§§ Waxes Membrane Transport,
»» Protein components pp. 293-321
»» Fluid mosaic model
• Membrane dynamics
• Solute transport across membranes
»» Thermodynamic considerations
»» Osmosis
§§ Colligative properties; osmotic pressure (GC)
»» Passive transport
»» Active transport
§§ Sodium-potassium pump
• Membrane channels
• Membrane potential
• Membrane receptors
• Exocytosis and endocytosis
• Intercellular junctions (BIO)
»» Gap junctions
»» Tight junctions
»» Desmosomes
*If a chapter is listed in this row, the abbreviations apply to all sections listed below. (continued)

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A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 2A: Assemblies of molecules, cells, and groups of cells within singlecellular and multicellular organisms (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Membrane-Bound Organelles and Defining Ch. 4 Ch. 9
Characteristics of Eukaryotic Cells (BIO)* Cell Structure Lipids and Biological
• Defining characteristics of eukaryotic cells: membrane- Membranes, pp. 245-292
bound nucleus, presence of organelles, mitotic division
• Nucleus Ch.10
»» Compartmentalization, storage of genetic information Membrane Transport,
»» Nucleolus: location and function pp. 293-321
»» Nuclear envelope, nuclear pores
• Mitochondria
»» Site of ATP production Ch. 11
»» Inner and outer membrane structure (BIO, BC) Enzymatic Catalysis,
»» Self-replication pp. 322-360
• Lysosomes: membrane-bound vesicles containing
hydrolytic enzymes
• Endoplasmic reticulum
»» Rough and smooth components
»» Rough endoplasmic reticulum site of ribosomes
»» Double-membrane structure
»» Role in membrane biosynthesis
»» Role in biosynthesis of secreted proteins
• Golgi apparatus: general structure and role in packaging
and secretion
• Peroxisomes: organelles that collect peroxides

Cytoskeleton (BIO) Ch. 4 Ch. 1

• General function in cell support and movement Cell Structure Introduction to the
• Microfilaments: composition and role in cleavage Chemistry of Life,
and contractility pp. 1-22
• Microtubules: composition and role in support
and transport
• Intermediate filaments, role in support
• Composition and function of cilia and flagella
• Centrioles, microtubule organizing centers
*If a chapter is listed in this row, the abbreviations apply to all sections listed below. (continued)

Association of
19 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 2A: Assemblies of molecules, cells, and groups of cells within singlecellular and multicellular organisms (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Tissues Formed From Eukaryotic Cells (BIO) Ch. 7
• Epithelial cells Protein Function:
• Connective tissue cells Myoglobin and
Hemoglobin, Muscle
Contraction, and
Antibodies: Section 2,
Muscle Contraction,
pp. 200-201

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20 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 2B: The structure, growth, physiology, and genetics of prokaryotes and viruses
The highly-organized assembly of molecules that is the cell represents the fundamental unit of structure, function, and organization in all living
organisms. In the hierarchy of biological organization, the cell is the simplest collection of matter capable of carrying out the processes that
distinguish living organisms. As such, cells have the ability to undergo metabolism; maintain homeostasis, including ionic gradients; the capacity
to grow; move in response to their local environments; respond to stimuli; reproduce; and adapt to their environment in successive generations.
Life at cellular levels arises from structural order, and its dynamic modulation. It does so in response to signals, thereby reflecting properties that
result from individual and interactive features of molecular assemblies, their compartmentalization, and their interaction with environmental signals
at many spatial and temporal scales.
The content in this category covers the classification, structure, growth, physiology, and genetics of prokaryotes, and the characteristics that
distinguish them from eukaryotes. Viruses are also covered here.
1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Cell Theory (BIO) Ch. 4 Ch. 1
• History and development Cell Structure Introduction to the
• Impact on biology Chemistry of Life,
pp. 1-22

Classification and Structure of Prokaryotic Cells (BIO) Ch. 4 Ch. 1

• Prokaryotic domains Cell Structure Introduction to the
»» Archaea Chemistry of Life,
»» Bacteria pp. 1-22
• Major classifications of bacteria by shape
»» Bacilli (rod-shaped)
»» Spirilli (spiral-shaped)
»» Cocci (spherical)
• Lack of nuclear membrane and mitotic apparatus
• Lack of typical eukaryotic organelles
• Presence of cell wall in bacteria
• Flagellar propulsion, mechanism
(continued)

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21 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 2B: The structure, growth, physiology, and genetics of prokaryotes and viruses (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Growth and Physiology of Prokaryotic Cells (BIO) Ch. 22 Ch. 22
• Reproduction by fission Prokaryotes: Bacteria Mammalian Fuel
• High degree of genetic adaptability, acquisition of and Archaea Metabolism: Integration
antibiotic resistance and Regulation,
• Exponential growth p. 77
• Existence of anaerobic and aerobic variants
• Parasitic and symbiotic
• Chemotaxis
Genetics of Prokaryotic Cells (BIO) Ch. 22 Ch. 1
• Existence of plasmids, extragenomic DNA Prokaryotes: Bacteria Introduction to the
• Transformation: incorporation into bacterial genome and Archaea Chemistry of Life,
of DNA fragments from external medium pp. 1-22
• Conjugation
• Transposons (also present in eukaryotic cells)
Virus Structure (BIO) Ch. 21
• General structural characteristics (nucleic acid Viruses
and protein, enveloped and nonenveloped)
• Lack organelles and nucleus
• Structural aspects of typical bacteriophage
• Genomic content—RNA or DNA
• Size relative to bacteria and eukaryotic cells

Viral Life Cycle (BIO) Ch. 21

• Self-replicating biological units that must Viruses
reproduce within specific host cell
• Generalized phage and animal virus life cycles
»» Attachment to host, penetration of cell membrane
or cell wall, and entry of viral genetic material
»» Use of host synthetic mechanism to replicate
viral components
»» Self-assembly and release of new viral particles
• Transduction: transfer of genetic material by viruses
• Retrovirus life cycle: integration into host DNA, reverse
transcriptase, HIV
• Prions and viroids: subviral particles

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22 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 2C: Processes of cell division, differentiation, and specialization

The ability of organisms to reproduce their own kind is the characteristic that best distinguishes living things. In sexually reproducing organisms,
the continuity of life is based on the processes of cell division and meiosis.
The process of cell division is an integral part of the cell cycle. The progress of eukaryotic cells through the cell cycle is regulated by a complex
molecular control system. Malfunctions in this system can result in unabated cellular division, and ultimately the development of cancer.
In the embryonic development of multicellular organisms, a fertilized egg gives rise to cells that differentiate into many different types of cells,
each with a different structure, corresponding function, and location within the organism. During development, spatial-temporal gradients in
the interactions between gene expression and various stimuli result in the structural and functional divergence of cells into specialized structure,
organs, and tissues. The interaction of stimuli and genes is also explained by the progression of stem cells to terminal cells.
The content in this category covers the cell cycle; the causes, genetics, and basic properties of cancer; the processes of meiosis and gametogenesis;
and the mechanisms governing cell specialization and differentiation.
1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Mitosis (BIO) Ch. 10
• Mitotic process: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, Cell Reproduction
telophase, interphase
• Mitotic structures
»» Centrioles, asters, spindles
»» Chromatids, centromeres, kinetochores
»» Nuclear membrane breakdown and reorganization
»» Mechanisms of chromosome movement
• Phases of cell cycle: G0, G1, S, G2, M
• Growth arrest
• Control of cell cycle
• Loss of cell-cycle controls in cancer cells

Biosignalling (BC) Ch. 13

• Oncogenes, apoptosis Biochemical Signaling,
pp. 402-441
(continued)

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23 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 2C: Processes of cell division, differentiation, and specialization (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Reproductive System (BIO) Ch. 43 Ch. 26
• Gametogenesis by meiosis Animal Reproduction The Reproductive System
• Ovum and sperm and Development
»» Differences in formation
»» Differences in morphology
»» Relative contribution to next generation
• Reproductive sequence: fertilization; implantation;
development; birth

Embryogenesis (BIO) Ch. 43 Ch. 27

• Stages of early development Animal Reproduction Human Development
(order and general features of each) and Development and Pregnancy
»» Fertilization
»» Cleavage
»» Blastula formation
»» Gastrulation
• First cell movements
• Formation of primary germ layers
(endoderm, mesoderm, ectoderm)
»» Neurulation
• Major structures arising out of primary germ layers
• Neural crest
• Environment-gene interaction in development

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24 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Foundational Concept 3: Complex systems of tissues and organs sense the

internal and external environments of multicellular organisms, and through
integrated functioning, maintain a stable internal environment within an ever-
changing external environment.
Content Category 3A: Structure and functions of the nervous and endocrine systems
and ways these systems coordinate the organ systems
The nervous and endocrine systems work together to detect external and internal signals, transmit and integrate information, and maintain
homeostasis. They do all of this by producing appropriate responses to internal and external cues and stressors. The integration of these systems
both with one another, and with the other organ systems, ultimately results in the successful and adaptive behaviors that allow for the propagation
of the species.
Animals have evolved a nervous system that senses and processes internal and external information that is used to facilitate and enhance
survival, growth, and reproduction. The nervous system interfaces with sensory and internal body systems to coordinate physiological
and behavioral responses ranging from simple movements and small metabolic changes to long-distance migrations and social interactions.
The physiological processes for nerve signal generation and propagation involve specialized membranes with associated proteins that respond
to ligands and/or electrical field changes, signaling molecules and, by extension, the establishment and replenishment of ionic electrochemical
gradients requiring ATP.
The endocrine system of animals has evolved to produce chemical signals that function internally to regulate stress responses, reproduction,
development, energy metabolism, growth, and various individual and interactive behaviors. The integrated contributions of the nervous and
endocrine systems to bodily functions are exemplified by the process whereby the signaling of neurons regulates hormone release, and by
the targeting of membrane or nuclear receptors on neurons by circulating hormones.
The content in this category covers the structure, function, and basic aspects of nervous and endocrine systems, and their integration.
The structure and function of nerve cells is also included in this category.

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25 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 3A: Structure and functions of the nervous and endocrine systems and ways these systems coordinate the organ systems

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Nervous System: Structure and Function (BIO) Ch. 35 Ch. 10
• Major Functions The Nervous System Nervous Tissue
»» High-level control and integration of body systems
»» Adaptive capability to external influences
• Organization of vertebrate nervous system
• Sensor and effector neurons
• Sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems:
antagonistic control
• Reflexes
»» Feedback loop, reflex arc
»» Role of spinal cord and supraspinal circuits
• Integration with endocrine system: feedback control

Nerve Cell (BIO) Ch. 35 Ch. 10

• Cell body: site of nucleus, organelles The Nervous System Nervous Tissue
• Dendrites: branched extensions of cell body
• Axon: structure and function
• Myelin sheath, Schwann cells, insulation of axon
• Nodes of Ranvier: propagation of nerve impulse
along axon
• Synapse: site of impulse propagation between cells
• Synaptic activity: transmitter molecules
• Resting potential: electrochemical gradient
• Action potential
»» Threshold, all-or-none
»» Sodium-potassium pump
• Excitatory and inhibitory nerve fibers: summation,
frequency of firing
• Glial cells, neuroglia
(continued)

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26 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 3A: Structure and functions of the nervous and endocrine systems and ways these systems coordinate the organ systems (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Biosignalling (BC) Ch. 35 Ch. 10 Ch. 13
• Gated ion channels The Nervous System Nervous Tissue Biochemical Signaling,
»» Voltage-gated pp. 402-441
»» Ligand-gated
• Receptor enzymes
• G protein–coupled receptors

Lipids (BC, OC) Ch. 3 Ch. 9

• Description, structure Biological Macromolecules Lipids and Biological
»» Steroids Membranes,
»» Terpenes and terpenoids pp. 245-292

Endocrine System: Hormones and Their Sources (BIO) Ch. 37 Ch. 15

• Function of endocrine system: specific chemical control The Endocrine System The Endocrine System
at cell, tissue, and organ levels
• Definitions of endocrine gland, hormone
• Major endocrine glands: names, locations, products
• Major types of hormones
• Neuroendrocrinology―relation between neurons
and hormonal systems

Endocrine System: Mechanisms of Hormone Ch. 37 Ch. 15 Ch. 22

Action (BIO) The Endocrine System The Endocrine System Mammalian Fuel
• Cellular mechanisms of hormone action Metabolism: Integration
• Transport of hormones: blood supply and Regulation:
• Specificity of hormones: target tissue Section 2, Hormonal
• Integration with nervous system: feedback-control Control of Fuel
regulation by second messengers Metabolism,
pp. 781-785

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27 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 3B: Structure and integrative functions of the main organ systems
Animals use a number of highly-organized and integrated organ systems to carry out the necessary functions associated with maintaining
life processes. Within the body, no organ system is an island. Interactions and coordination between organ systems allow organisms to engage
in the processes necessary to sustain life. For example, the organs and structures of the circulatory system carry out a number of functions,
such as transporting:
• nutrients absorbed in the digestive system;
• gases absorbed from the respiratory system and muscle tissue;
• hormones secreted from the endocrine system; and
• blood cells produced in bone marrow to and from cells in the body to help fight disease.
The content in this category covers the structure and function of the major organ systems of the body including the respiratory, circulatory,
lymphatic, immune, digestive, excretory, reproductive, muscle, skeletal, and skin systems. Also covered in this category is the integration of these
systems and their control and coordination by the endocrine and nervous systems.

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28 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Category 3B: Structure and integrative functions of the main organ systems

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Respiratory System (BIO) Ch. 39 Ch. 21
• General function The Respiratory System The Respiratory System
»» Gas exchange, thermoregulation
»» Protection against disease: particulate matter
• Structure of lungs and alveoli
• Breathing mechanisms
»» Diaphragm, rib cage, differential pressure
»» Resiliency and surface tension effects
• Thermoregulation: nasal and tracheal capillary beds;
evaporation, panting
• Particulate filtration: nasal hairs, mucus-cilia system in lungs
• Alveolar gas exchange
»» Diffusion, differential partial pressure
»» Henry’s Law (GC)
• pH control
• Regulation by nervous control
»» CO2 sensitivity
(continued)

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29 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Category 3B: Structure and integrative functions of the main organ systems (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Circulatory System (BIO) Ch. 40 Ch. 16
• Functions: circulation of oxygen, nutrients, hormones, The Circulatory System Blood
ions and fluids, removal of metabolic waste
• Role in thermoregulation Ch. 17
• Four-chambered heart: structure and function The Cardiovascular System
• Endothelial cells
• Systolic and diastolic pressure
• Pulmonary and systemic circulation Ch. 18
• Arterial and venous systems (arteries, arterioles, The Cardiovascular System:
venules, veins) The Blood vessels
»» Structural and functional differences
»» Pressure and flow characteristics
• Capillary beds
»» Mechanisms of gas and solute exchange
»» Mechanism of heat exchange
»» Source of peripheral resistance
• Composition of blood
»» Plasma, chemicals, blood cells
»» Erythrocyte production and destruction; spleen,
bone marrow
»» Regulation of plasma volume
• Coagulation, clotting mechanisms
• Oxygen transport by blood
»» Hemoglobin, hematocrit
»» Oxygen content
»» Oxygen affinity
»» Modification of oxygen affinity
• Carbon dioxide transport and level in blood
• Nervous and endocrine control
(continued)

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30 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Category 3B: Structure and integrative functions of the main organ systems (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Lymphatic System (BIO) Ch. 19
• Structure of lymphatic system The Lymphatic System
• Major functions
»» Equalization of fluid distribution
»» Transport of proteins and large glycerides
»» Production of lymphocytes involved in immune reactions
»» Return of materials to the blood

Immune System (BIO) Ch. 42 Ch. 20

• Innate (nonspecific) v. adaptive (specific) immunity The Immune System The Immune System
• Adaptive immune system cells
»» T-lymphocytes
»» B-lymphocytes
• Innate immune system cells
»» Macrophages
»» Phagocytes
• Tissue
»» Bone marrow
»» Spleen
»» Thymus
»» Lymph nodes
• Concept of antigen and antibody
• Antigen presentation
• Clonal selection
• Antigen-antibody recognition
• Structure of antibody molecule
• Recognition of self vs nonself, autoimmune diseases
• Major histocompatibility complex
(continued)

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31 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Category 3B: Structure and integrative functions of the main organ systems (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Digestive System (BIO) Ch. 34 Ch. 22
• Ingestion The Digestive System The Digestive System
»» Saliva as lubrication and source of enzymes
»» Ingestion; esophagus, transport function
• Stomach
»» Storage and churning of food
»» Low pH, gastric juice, mucal protection against
self-destruction
»» Production of digestive enzymes, site of digestion
»» Structure (gross)
• Liver
»» Structural relationship of liver within gastrointestinal system
»» Production of bile
»» Role in blood glucose regulation, detoxification
• Bile
»» Storage in gall bladder
»» Function
• Pancreas
»» Production of enzymes
»» Transport of enzymes to small intestine
• Small Intestine
»» Absorption of food molecules and water
»» Function and structure of villi
»» Production of enzymes, site of digestion
»» Neutralization of stomach acid
»» Structure (anatomic subdivisions)
• Large Intestine
»» Absorption of water
»» Bacterial flora
»» Structure (gross)
• Rectum: storage and elimination of waste, feces
• Muscular control
»» Peristalsis
• Endocrine control
»» Hormones
»» Target tissues
• Nervous control: the enteric nervous system
(continued)

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32 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Category 3B: Structure and integrative functions of the main organ systems (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Excretory System (BIO) Ch. 41 Ch. 24
• Roles in homeostasis Osmotic Regulation The Urinary System
»» Blood pressure and the Excretory System
»» Osmoregulation
»» Acid-base balance
»» Removal of soluble nitrogenous waste
• Kidney structure
»» Cortex
»» Medulla
• Nephron structure
»» Glomerulus
»» Bowman’s capsule
»» Proximal tubule
»» Loop of Henle
»» Distal tubule
»» Collecting duct
• Formation of urine
»» Glomerular filtration
»» Secretion and reabsorption of solutes
»» Concentration of urine
»» Counter-current multiplier mechanism
• Storage and elimination: ureter, bladder, urethra
• Osmoregulation: capillary reabsorption of H2O, amino
acids, glucose, ions
• Muscular control: sphincter muscle

Reproductive System (BIO) Ch. 43 Ch. 26

• Male and female reproductive structures and their functions Animal Reproduction The Reproductive System
»» Gonads and Development
»» Genitalia
»» Differences between male and female structures
• Hormonal control of reproduction
»» Male and female sexual development
»» Female reproductive cycle
»» Pregnancy, parturition, lactation
»» Integration with nervous control
(continued)

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33 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Category 3B: Structure and integrative functions of the main organ systems (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Muscle System (BIO) Ch. 38 Ch. 9
• Important functions The Musculoskeletal The Muscular System
»» Support: mobility System
»» Peripheral circulatory assistance
»» Thermoregulation (shivering reflex)
• Structure of three basic muscle types: striated,
smooth, cardiac
• Muscle structure and control of contraction
»» T-tubule system
»» Contractile apparatus
»» Sarcoplasmic reticulum
»» Fiber type
»» Contractile velocity of different muscle types
• Regulation of cardiac muscle contraction
• Oxygen debt: fatigue
• Nervous control
»» Motor neurons
»» Neuromuscular junction, motor end plates
»» Sympathetic and parasympathetic innervation
»» Voluntary and involuntary muscles

Specialized Cell-Muscle Cell (BIO) Ch. 9

• Structural characteristics of striated, smooth, The Muscular System
and cardiac muscle
• Abundant mitochondria in red muscle cells: ATP source
• Organization of contractile elements: actin and myosin
filaments, crossbridges, sliding-filament model
• Sarcomeres: “I” and “A” bands, “M” and “Z” lines,
“H” zone
• Presence of troponin and tropomyosin
• Calcium regulation of contraction
(continued)

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34 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Category 3B: Structure and integrative functions of the main organ systems (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Skeletal System (BIO) Ch. 38 Ch. 7
• Functions The Musculoskeletal The Skeletal System
»» Structural rigidity and support System
»» Calcium storage Ch. 8
»» Physical protection Joints
• Skeletal structure
»» Specialization of bone types, structures
»» Joint structures
»» Endoskeleton vs exoskeleton
• Bone structure
»» Calcium-protein matrix
»» Cellular composition of bone
• Cartilage: structure and function
• Ligaments, tendons
• Endocrine control

Skin System (BIO) Ch. 5

• Structure The Integumentary System
»» Layer differentiation, cell types
»» Relative impermeability to water
• Functions in homeostasis and osmoregulation
• Functions in thermoregulation
»» Hair, erectile musculature
»» Fat layer for insulation
»» Sweat glands, location in dermis
»» Vasoconstriction and vasodilation in surface capillaries
• Physical protection
»» Nails, calluses, hair
»» Protection against abrasion, disease organisms
• Hormonal control: sweating, vasodilation, vasoconstriction

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35 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Foundational Concept 4: Complex living organisms transport materials,

sense their environment, process signals, and respond to changes using
processes that can be understood in terms of physical principles.
Content Category 4B: Importance of fluids for the circulation of blood, gas movement,
and gas exchange
Fluids are featured in several physiologically important processes, including the circulation of blood, gas movement into and out of the lungs,
and gas exchange into the blood. The energetic requirements of fluid dynamics can be modeled using physical equations. A thorough
understanding of fluids is necessary to understand the origins of numerous forms of disease.
The content in this category covers hydrostatic pressure, fluid flow rates, viscosity, the Kinetic Molecular Theory of Gases, and the Ideal Gas Law.
1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Circulatory System (BIO) Ch. 40
• Arterial and venous systems; pressure The Circulatory System
and flow characteristics

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36 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Foundational Concept 5: The principles that govern chemical interactions

and reactions form the basis for a broader understanding of the molecular
dynamics of living systems.
Content Category 5A: Unique nature of water and its solutions
In order to fully understand the complex and dynamic nature of living systems, it is first necessary to understand the unique nature of water and its
solutions. The unique properties of water allow it to strongly interact with and mobilize many types of solutes, including ions. Water is also unique
in its ability to absorb energy and buffer living systems from the chemical changes necessary to sustain life.
The content in this category covers the nature of solutions, solubility, acids, bases, and buffers.
1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Acid/Base Equilibria (GC, BC) Ch. 2
• Bronsted-Lowry definition of acid, base Water: Section 2, Chemical
• Ionization of water Properties of Water,
»» Kw, its approximate value (Kw = [H +][OH – ] = 10 –14 at pp. 31-40
25°C, 1 atm)
»» Definition of pH: pH of pure water
• Conjugate acids and bases (e.g., NH4 + and NH3)
• Strong acids and bases (e.g., nitric, sulfuric)
• Weak acids and bases (e.g., acetic, benzoic)
»» Dissociation of weak acids and bases with or without
added salt
»» Hydrolysis of salts of weak acids or bases
»» Calculation of pH of solutions of salts of weak acids
or bases
• Equilibrium constants Ka and Kb: pKa, pKb
• Buffers
»» Definition and concepts (common buffer systems)
»» Influence on titration curves
Ions in Solutions (GC, BC) Ch. 2
• Anion, cation: common names, formulas and charges Water: Section 2, Chemical
for familiar ions (e.g., NH4 + ammonium, PO43– phosphate, Properties of Water,
SO42– sulfate) pp. 31-40
• Hydration, the hydronium ion

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A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 5C: Separation and purification methods

Analysis of complex mixtures of substances—especially biologically relevant materials—typically requires separation of the components.
Many methods have been developed to accomplish this task, and the method used is dependent on the types of substances which comprise
the mixture. All of these methods rely on the magnification of potential differences in the strength of intermolecular interactions.
The content in this category covers separation and purification methods including: extraction, liquid and gas chromatography, and electrophoresis.
1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Separations and Purifications (OC, BC)* Ch. 5
• Extraction: distribution of solute between Proteins: Primary Structure:
two immiscible solvents Section 2, Protein
• Distillation Purification and Analysis,
• Chromatography pp. 99-108
»» Basic principles involved in separation process
§§ Column chromatography, gas-liquid
chromatography
§§ High-pressure liquid chromatography
»» Paper chromatography
»» Thin-layer chromatography
• Separation and purification of peptides and proteins (BC)
»» Electrophoresis
»» Quantitative analysis
»» Chromatography
§§ Size-exclusion
§§ Ion-exchange
§§ Affinity
• Racemic mixtures, separation of enantiomers (OC)
*If a chapter is listed in this row, the abbreviations apply to all sections listed below.

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A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 5D: Structure, function, and reactivity of biologically-relevant molecules

The structure of biological molecules forms the basis of their chemical reactions including oligomerization and polymerization. Unique aspects of each
type of biological molecule dictate their role in living systems, whether providing structure or information storage, or serving as fuel and catalysts.
The content in this category covers the structure, function, and reactivity of biologically-relevant molecules including the mechanistic considerations
that dictate their modes of reactivity.
1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Nucleotides and Nucleic Acids (OC, BC, BIO)* Ch. 3 Ch. 3
• Nucleotides and nucleosides: composition Biological Macromolecules Nucleotides, Nucleic Acids,
»» Sugar phosphate backbone and Genetic Information,
»» Pyrimidine, purine residues pp. 42-79
• Deoxyribonucleic acid: DNA; double helix
• Chemistry (OC, BC)
• Other functions (OC, BC)

Amino Acids, Peptides, Proteins (OC, BC)* Ch. 3 Ch. 4

• Amino acids: description Biological Macromolecules Amino Acids,
»» Absolute configuration at the α position pp. 80-96
»» Dipolar ions
»» Classification
§§ Acidic or basic
§§ Hydrophilic or hydrophobic
»» Synthesis of α-amino acids (OC)
§§ Strecker Synthesis
§§ Gabriel Synthesis
• Peptides and proteins: reactions
»» Sulfur linkage between a pair of cysteines
»» Peptide linkage: polypeptides and proteins
»» Hydrolysis
• General Principles
§§ 1° structure of proteins
§§ 2° structure of proteins
§§ 3° structure of proteins
§§ Isoelectric point
*If a chapter is listed in this row, the abbreviations apply to all sections listed below. (continued)

Association of
39 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 5D: Structure, function, and reactivity of biologically-relevant molecules (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
The Three-Dimensional Protein Structure (BC) Ch. 3 Ch. 6
• Conformational stability Biological Macromolecules Proteins: Three-
»» Hydrophobic interactions Dimensional Structure,
»» Solvation layer (entropy) pp. 131-179
• 4° structure
• Denaturing and folding

Nonenzymatic Protein Function (BC) Ch. 3 Ch. 7

• Binding Biological Macromolecules Protein Function: Myoglobin
• Immune system and Hemoglobin, Muscle
• Motor Contraction and Antibodies,
pp. 180-220

Lipids (BC, OC)* Ch. 3 Ch. 9

• Types Biological Macromolecules Lipids and Biological
• Storage Membranes,
»» Triacyl glycerols pp. 245-292
»» Free fatty acids: saponification
• Structural
»» Phospholipids and phosphatids
»» Sphingolipids
»» Waxes
• Signals, cofactors
»» Fat-soluble vitamins
»» Steroids
»» Prostaglandins
*If a chapter is listed in this row, the abbreviations apply to all sections listed below. (continued)

Association of
40 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 5D: Structure, function, and reactivity of biologically-relevant molecules (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Carbohydrates (OC)* Ch. 3 Ch. 8
• Description Biological Macromolecules Carbohydrates,
»» Nomenclature and classification, common names pp. 221-245
»» Absolute configuration
»» Cyclic structure and conformations of hexoses
»» Epimers and anomers
• Hydrolysis of the glycoside linkage
• Keto-enol tautomerism of monosaccharides
• Disaccharides (BC)
• Polysaccharides (BC)

Phenols (OC, BC) Ch.14

• Oxidation and reduction (e.g., hydroquinones), Introduction to
ubiquinones: biological 2e– redox centers Metabolism: Section 3,
Oxidation–Reduction
Reactions,
pp. 461-466

Polycyclic and Heterocyclic Aromatic Compounds Ch. 3

(OC, BC) Nucleotides, Nucleic Acids
• Biological aromatic heterocycles and Genetic Information:
Section 1, Nucleotides,
pp. 43
*If a chapter is listed in this row, the abbreviations apply to all sections listed below.

Association of
41 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 5E: Principles of chemical thermodynamics and kinetics

The processes that occur in living systems are dynamic, and they follow the principles of chemical thermo-dynamics and kinetics. The position
of chemical equilibrium is dictated by the relative energies of products and reactants. The rate at which chemical equilibrium is attained is dictated
by a variety of factors: concentration of reactants, temperature, and the amount of catalyst (if any).
Biological systems have evolved to harness energy, and utilize it in very efficient ways to support all processes of life, including homeostasis and
anabolism. Biological catalysts, known as enzymes, have evolved to allow all of the relevant chemical reactions required to sustain life to occur
both rapidly and efficiently, and under the narrow set of conditions required.
The content in this category covers all principles of chemical thermodynamics and kinetics including enzymatic catalysis.
1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Enzymes (BC, BIO) Ch. 6 Ch. 17
• Classification by reaction type Metabolism Enzyme Kinetics, Inhibition,
• Mechanism and Control,
»» Substrates and enzyme specificity pp. 346-401
»» Active-site model
»» Induced-fit model
»» Cofactors, coenzymes, and vitamins
• Kinetics
»» General (catalysis)
»» Michaelis-Menten
»» Cooperativity
»» Effects of local conditions on enzyme activity
• Inhibition
• Regulatory enzymes
»» Allosteric
»» Covalently modified
(continued)

Association of
42 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 5E: Principles of chemical thermodynamics and kinetics (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Principles of Bioenergetics (BC) Ch. 18
• Bioenergetics/thermodynamics Electron Transport and
»» Free energy/Keq Oxidative Phosphorylation,
»» Concentration pp. 588-629
• Phosphorylation/ATP
»» ATP hydrolysis ΔG << 0
»» ATP group transfers
• Biological oxidation-reduction
»» Half-reactions
»» Soluble electron carriers
»» Flavoproteins

Association of
43 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Foundational Concept 6: Biological, psychological, and socio-cultural

factors influence the ways that individuals perceive, think about, and react
to the world.
Content Category 6A: Sensing the environment
Psychological, socio-cultural, and biological factors affect sensation and perception of the world. All sensory processing begins with first detecting
a stimulus in the environment through sensory cells, receptors, and biological pathways.
After collecting sensory information, we then interpret and make sense of it. Although sensation and perception are distinct functions,
they are both influenced by psychological, social, and biological factors and therefore become almost indistinguishable in practice.
This complexity is illuminated by examining human sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell.
The content in this category covers sensation and perception across all five human senses.
1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Sensory Processing (PSY, BIO)* Ch. 36
• Sensation Sensory Systems
»» Thresholds
»» Weber’s Law (PSY)
»» Signal-detection theory (PSY)
»» Sensory adaptation
• Sensory receptors
»» Sensory pathways
»» Types of sensory receptors

Vision (PSY, BIO)* Ch. 36 Ch. 13

• Structure and function of the eye Sensory Systems Special Senses
• Visual processing
»» Visual pathways in the brain
»» Parallel processing (PSY)
»» Feature detection (PSY)
*If a chapter is listed in this row, the abbreviations apply to all sections listed below. (continued)

Association of
44 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 6A: Sensing the environment (continued)

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Hearing (PSY, BIO)* Ch. 36 Ch. 13
• Auditory processing Sensory Systems Special Senses
»» Auditory pathways in the brain
• Sensory reception by hair cells (PSY)

Other Senses (PSY, BIO)* Ch. 36 Ch. 13

• Somatosensation Sensory Systems Special Senses
»» Pain perception (PSY)
• Taste
»» Taste buds/chemoreceptors that detect
specific chemicals
• Smell
»» Olfactory cells/chemoreceptors that detect
specific chemicals
»» Pheromones (BIO)
»» Olfactory pathways in the brain (BIO)
• Kinesthetic sense (PSY)
• Vestibular sense
*If a chapter is listed in this row, the abbreviations apply to all sections listed below.

Association of
45 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Foundational Concept 7: Biological, psychological, and socio-cultural factors

influence behavior and behavior change.
Content Category 7A: Individual influences on behavior
A complex interplay of psychological and biological factors shapes behavior. Biological structures and processes serve as the pathway by which
bodies carry out activities. They also affect predispositions to behave in certain ways, shape personalities, and influence the likelihood of
developing psychological disorders. Psychological factors also affect behavior, and consequently, health and well-being.
The content in this category covers biological bases of behavior, including the effect of genetics and how the nervous and endocrine systems affect
behavior. It also addresses how personality, psychological disorders, motivation, and attitudes affect behavior. Some of these topics are learned in
the context of non-human animal species.

Association of
46 American Medical Colleges
A Roadmap to MCAT® Content in Biochemistry Textbooks

Content Category 7A: Individual influences on behavior

1st-
Intro Boundless Fundamentals
Semester Topic Boundless Biology
Bio Physiology of Biochemistry
Biochem
Biological Bases of Behavior (PSY, BIO)* Ch. 35
• The nervous system The Nervous System
»» Neurons
§§  The reflex arc
»» Neurotransmitters
»» Peripheral nervous system
»» Central nervous system
§§ The brain
êê The brainstem
êê The cerebellum
êê The diencephalon (BIO)
êê The cerebrum
êê Control of voluntary movement in
the cerebral cortex
êê Information processing in the cerebral cortex
êê Lateralization of cortical functions
• Neurons communicate and influence behavior (PSY)
• Influence of Neurotransmitters on behavior (PSY)
• The endocrine system
»» Components of the endocrine system
»» Effects of the endocrine system on behavior
• Behavioral genetics
• Genes, temperament, heredity
• Adaptive value of traits and behaviors
• Interaction between heredity and environmental
influences
• Genetic and environmental factors contribute to the
development of behaviors
»» Experience and behavior (PSY)
»» Regulatory genes and behavior (BIO)
»» Genetically based behavioral variation in natural
populations
• Human physiological development (PSY)
»» Prenatal development
»» Motor development
»» Developmental changes in adolescence
*If a chapter is listed in this row, the abbreviations apply to all sections listed below.

Association of
47 American Medical Colleges