Carbohydrates and Amino Acids in Organic on the MCAT?

[SeminoleFan3]

To what extent do you think that carbohydrates will be tested as an organic chem topic on the MCAT? I know how they work biologically, but I feel extremely weak in terms of structure.
Also, same question for amino acids in terms of isoelectric points and such?

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[DrBowtie]

Biological Molecules
A. CARBOHYDRATE
1. Description
a. nomenclature and classification, common names
b. absolute configuration
c. cyclic structure and conformations of hexoses
d. epimers and anomers
2. Hydrolysis of the glycoside linkage
B. AMINO ACIDS AND PROTEINS
1. Description
a. absolute configuration at the α position
b. amino acids as dipolar ions classification
c. classification
i. acidic or basic
ii. hydrophobic or hydrophilic
2. Reactions
a. peptide linkage
b. hydrolysis
3. General principles
a. 1° structure of proteins
b. 2° structure of proteins
C. LIPIDS
Description; structure
a. steroids
b. terpenes
c. triacyl glycerols
d. free fatty acids

 

[Sol Rosenberg]

To what extent do you think that carbohydrates will be tested as an organic chem topic on the MCAT? I know how they work biologically, but I feel extremely weak in terms of structure.
Also, same question for amino acids in terms of isoelectric points and such?

Know the definition of a carbohydrate (I remember that was on one of the more recent AAMC exams) -- it has an empirical formula of (CH2O)n

I think specific isoelectric points of amino acids is beyond the scope of the MCAT, but it MIGHT be helpful to know which amino acids are charged, polar, etc.

 

[OctoDoc]

From an organic chemistry perspective, you will most likely see carbohydrates and amino acids in questions about stereochemistry.

 

[Non-TradTulsa]

We can tell you what was on our form when we took the MCAT - but, BrettBachelor posted the AAMC subject list - and, if it's on there, it's fair game - and that's the most reliable source for coverage - just 'cause it wasn't on, say, last April's test doesn't mean it won't be on this one.

Good luck!

 

[Mr. Tee]

I know how they work biologically, but I feel extremely weak in terms of structure.
Also, same question for amino acids in terms of isoelectric points and such?

Interpreting carbohydrate structure should be on there. I don't think you'd have to remember specific structures other than glucose's, but you never know.

I don't think you'd be expected to know specific isoelectric point values for different amino acids, but rather what isoelectric points mean and how they relate to amino acids (eg. what happens when you electrophorese an amino acid at a specific pH).