MCAT Basics Podcast

Viruses

In this episode, we cover the topic of viruses. We explore a comprehensive range of subtopics including the definition and structure of viruses, their life cycles, and the differences between transduction and transfection. We also discuss virus classification, viral mutations, and subviral particles. This material will primarily appear in the Bio/Biochem section of the MCAT. 

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Jump into the conversation:

[00:00] Introduction

[01:57] Definition of a virus

[02:55] Virus structure

[10:41] The viral life cycle

[17:34] The bacteriophage life cycle

[21:40] The retrovirus life cycle

[21:40] The retrovirus life cycle

[27:11] Virus classification

[32:09] Viral mutation 

[40:31] Subviral particles

Sam Smith

Sam completed his Bachelors of Science in Chemical and Biological Engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder. Following his graduation, he worked at the National Institutes of Health Vaccine Research Center studying HIV. Meanwhile, with a microphone in his garage, Sam founded the MCAT Basics podcast. The podcast has grown to become the top rated MCAT podcast on iTunes. In addition to podcasting, Sam enjoys the outdoors, sports, and his friends and family.

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