Pre-Matriculation

Greetings future physicians and health care team leaders! This page contains welcome messages and links to a short list of optional, asynchronous, pre-matriculation modules and resources that cover study strategies and selected basic science concepts that can reacquaint you with some of the basic science topics covered in the first month of the Early Clinical Experience. Please contact Dr. Anthony Paganini, Department of Physiology, Director of Integration for further assistance.

  • Module 1: Introduction to Start Strong and Medical Education Overview
    Learning Activities Learning Objectives

    Module 1a: Welcome

    Dr. DeMuth-Welcome to CHM  (video 7:37) Robin DeMuth, MD, Associate Dean of Undergraduate Medical Education 

    Dr. Paganini Welcome to the Basic Science Modules

    Academic Achievement Welcome (video 0:58)

     

    Contact Information

    Module 1b: Overview of your Medical Education Journey

    A brief intro to medical education  (video 32:14)  Robin DeMuth, MD, Associate Dean of Undergraduate Medical Education

    1. Describe common components and their timeline in the timeline of the education of a physician
    2. Define frequently used terms in medical education

     

  • Module 2: Basic Science Learning Strategies
    Learning Activities Learning Objectives

    Module 2a:

    Evidence Based Strategies to Maximize Your Learning

    Learning Strategy: Spaced Repetition 

    Learning Strategy: Dual Coding 

    Learning Strategy: Interleaving 

    Learning Strategy: Concrete Examples

    Learning Strategy: Elaboration

    Learning Strategy: Retrieval Practice

     

    The six strategies represent high-impact approaches to learning supported by evidence from cognitive psychology. These strategies are particularly effective for medical education, which requires learning, applying, and retaining significant amounts of information! Created by the Office of Academic Achievement team.

    Module 2b:

    Medical Audio Pronunciation Resource

    Medical Terminology Resource WITH AUDIO PRONUNCIATIONS!

    Taber's Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary

     Module 2c:

    How to Maximize Learning from on-line modules

    To help you prepare for a successful transition to the College of Human Medicine (CHM), we've created modules to introduce you to basic science in medical education and offer a refresh of selected biochemistry and cell biology topics. These modules are optional, self-paced, and open to all incoming CHM students.

    Based on your current basic content knowledge, we encourage you to assess your strengths and weaknesses associated with the module's topics below. While we know you have been successful in your education and have developed effective strategies, the tips and resources below have been selected strategically to assist you with your transition to learning and retaining medical education topics. Select one or all to review at your own pace. 

    Tips:

    1. Before starting a module, gather your pencils, colored markers, paper, and/or your laptop to take some notes.
    2. Begin the Module video. Pause on the module learning objectives. Assess which of these learning objectives you can demonstrate or which you need to learn or revisit.
    3. Create study notes as you watch the modules. As you create these notes, think about how you can format your notes to quiz yourself later.
    4. Pause to complete the questions embedded in the videos. Check to see if you can explain why the correct answer is right and why the other answers are wrong.
    5. Experiment with the learning and study strategies (Infographics) shared by the Office of Academic Achievement associated with each module.
    6. To enhance your retention of module topics, test your knowledge by quizzing yourself on completed module content about a week after you have completed each module. Revisit challenging topics and add them to your notes.
    7. If you have questions, don't hesitate to reach out to either of the following:
      1. Anthony Paganini, PhD, Director of Integration (Basic Science questions)

      2. Eron Drake, EdD, Director of Academic Achievement (Learning and studying questions)
  • Module 3: Introduction to Extracellular Matrix and Connective Tissue

    Access to the Prematriculation Modules on PlayPosit requires a login. Please use your MSU email address. Your password is composed of the first two letters of your last name followed by an underscore and your StudentID number.

    You can find your StudentID in your acceptance package or within the Student Information System. For example, if your name is Green Sparty, your password would be Sp_123456789.

     

    Learning Activities Learning Objectives

    Module 3:

    Introduction to Extracellular Matrix and Connective Tissue

    Introduction to Extracellular Matrix and Connective Tissue

    (interactive video 9:16) 

    Strong Start Study Strategy Connective Tissue (Infographic)

    • Combine Images and Words for Better Retention
    • Use Retrieval Practice to know what you know
    1. Describe the continuum of connective tissue with respect to ratio of cell volume density to extracellular matrix density.
    2. Give representative examples of where different types of connective tissue are found in the body.
    3. Recognize Loose, Dense Irregular, and Dense Regular Connective Tissue in microscopy and in schematics.
    4. Describe the composition of the extracellular matrix.
    5. Describe the central dogma of molecular biology as it applies to a fibroblast synthesizing and releasing collagen protein into the extracellular matrix
  • Module 4: Membrane Ion Transport

    Access to the Prematriculation Modules on PlayPosit requires a login. Please use your MSU email address. Your password is composed of the first two letters of your last name followed by an underscore and your StudentID number.

    You can find your StudentID in your acceptance package or within the Student Information System. For example, if your name is Green Sparty, your password would be Sp_123456789.

     

    Learning Activities Learning Objectives

    Module 4:

    Ion Transport

    Ion Transport (Interactive video 10:53)


    Strong Start Study Strategy Membrane Ion Transport (Infographic)

    • Ask and Answer Question Strategy
    • Draw, Diagram, or Label to Dual Code Information Strategy
    1. Contrast paracellular vs transcellular transport of ions

    2. Describe the function of the Na/K ATPase pump in relation to maintaining ionic gradients for Na, K, Cl, glucose, and calcium

    3. Describe the different transport mechanisms by which Na, K and Cl cross the cell membrane
  • Module 5: Cell Communication

    Access to the Prematriculation Modules on PlayPosit requires a login. Please use your MSU email address. Your password is composed of the first two letters of your last name followed by an underscore and your StudentID number.

    You can find your StudentID in your acceptance package or within the Student Information System. For example, if your name is Green Sparty, your password would be Sp_123456789.

     

    Learning Activities Learning Objectives

    Module 5:

    Introduction to Receptors & Cell Signaling

     

    Introduction to Receptors & Cell Signaling

    1. Describe general ligand-receptor interactions and cell signaling. ​

    2. Describe the mechanism of actions of the different types of receptors including ligand-gated ion channels, G protein coupled receptors, enzyme linked receptors, and intracellular receptors. ​

    3. Recognize the major signaling pathways and their results of ligand-gated ion channels, G protein coupled receptors, enzyme linked receptors, and intracellular receptors.

    4. Clinical Application: Recognize the role of cell signaling in illustrative diseases such as diabetes insipidus, cancer development, cystic fibrosis, and congenital hypothyroidism.
  • Module 6: Protein Structure/Function Review

    Access to the Prematriculation Modules on PlayPosit requires a login. Please use your MSU email address. Your password is composed of the first two letters of your last name followed by an underscore and your StudentID number.

    You can find your StudentID in your acceptance package or within the Student Information System. For example, if your name is Green Sparty, your password would be Sp_123456789.

     

    Learning Activities Learning Objectives

    Module 6a:

    Protein Structure

     

     

    Protein Structure Review (interactive video 12:32)

    1. Describe primary, secondary, and tertiary protein structure​

    2. Describe how disruptions in protein structure can lead to disease

    Module 6b: Amino Acid & Amino Acid Metabolism

    Review of Amino Acid & Amino Acid & Metabolism

    (interactive video 10:00) 

    Start Strong Study Strategy Three Quick Tips to Review Biochemistry 

    Start Strong Study Strategy Intermediary Metabolism Overview

    1. Describe the basic structure of an amino acid.​

    2. Recognize polar vs. non-polar amino acids and ketogenic vs. glucogenic amino acids. ​

    3. Recognize amino acid derivatives of phenylalanine, arginine, and tryptophan. ​

    4. Describe the urea cycle and its connection to the Krebs cycle. 
    5. Clinical Application: Recognize disorders of amino acid metabolism including PKU and Maple Syrup Urine disease. 

    Module 6c:
    Protein Trafficking and Secretion

    Protein Trafficking and Secretion (interactive video 6:24) 

    Strong Start Study Strategy Protein Trafficking and Secretion (Infographic)

    • Create Effective Study Notes
    • Note-Making Tips
    1. Describe the role of organelles involved in the synthesis and secretion of a protein
    2. Describe what determines if a protein is secreted into the interstitial space or is destined for the cell’s cytoplasm
    3. Describe the different destinations of proteins synthesized by a cell
    4. Define and give illustrative examples of regulated protein secretion versus constitutive protein secretion
  • Module 7: Nucleotide Structure & Metabolism

    Access to the Prematriculation Modules on PlayPosit requires a login. Please use your MSU email address. Your password is composed of the first two letters of your last name followed by an underscore and your StudentID number.

    You can find your StudentID in your acceptance package or within the Student Information System. For example, if your name is Green Sparty, your password would be Sp_123456789.

     

    Learning Activities Learning Objectives

    Module 7:

    Nucleotide Structure & Metabolism

     

     

    Review of Nucleotide Structure and Metabolism

    (interactive video 8:45)

    Strong Start Study Strategy Nucleotide Structure and Metabolism (Infographic)

    • Learn Biochemical Pathways Hierarchically
    • Mix it up while studying to increase mental agility
    1. Recognize the central dogma of biology as it applies to the presence of nucleotides and the presence of different RNAs.​
    2. Recognize the structures of nucleotides, nucleosides, and nitrogenous bases.​
    3. Understand how nucleotides, nucleosides, and nitrogenous bases are used throughout the body.​
    4. Describe nucleotide metabolism and the major products. ​
    5. Recognize disorders secondary to disruption of purine metabolism, including gout.
  • Module 8: Cell Membrane

    Access to the Prematriculation Modules on PlayPosit requires a login. Please use your MSU email address. Your password is composed of the first two letters of your last name followed by an underscore and your StudentID number.

    You can find your StudentID in your acceptance package or within the Student Information System. For example, if your name is Green Sparty, your password would be Sp_123456789.

     

    Learning Activities Learning Objectives

    Module 8:

    Cell Membrane

     

     

    Review of Cell Membrane

    (interactive video 11:24)

    1. Describe the structure of the cell membrane, including the fluid mosaic model and its role in selective permeability of the cell.
    2. Describe the transport structures and modalities responsible for moving things into, through, and out of the cell and provide examples.
    3. Provide examples of signaling functions of the cell membrane.
    4. Provide examples of the clinical relevance of the cell membrane, including:
      1. Membrane receptors in drug mechanisms
      2. Clinical pathologies - Cystic Fibrosis
      3. Immune response - antigens and antibodies
  • Module 9: Central Metabolic Pathways

    Access to the Prematriculation Modules on PlayPosit requires a login. Please use your MSU email address. Your password is composed of the first two letters of your last name followed by an underscore and your StudentID number.

    You can find your StudentID in your acceptance package or within the Student Information System. For example, if your name is Green Sparty, your password would be Sp_123456789.

     

    Learning Activities Learning Objectives

    Module 9a:

    Overview of Central Metabolic Pathways

     

     

    Overview of Metabolic Pathways

    (interactive video 23:00)


    Strong Start Study Strategy How to Hack Metabolic Pathways (infographic)

    • Learn complex Metabolic Pathways by answering simple questions. 

    • Use Elaboration to facilitate deeper understanding and find clinical connections
    1. Describe the most common tissue(s) and subcellular location(s) where the following biochemical processes are located: glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, Pentose Phosphate Pathway, Citric Acid Cycle & Oxidative Phosphorylation, Fatty Acid Synthesis and Beta Oxidation, Cholesterol Synthesis, Ketone Body Synthesis
    2. Describe the major function(s) of: glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, Pentose Phosphate Pathway, Citric Acid Cycle & Oxidative Phosporylation, Fatty Acid Synthesis and Beta Oxidation, Cholestrol Synthesis, Ketone Body SynthesisDefine what is meant by a metabolic "nexus" molecule in intermedary metabolism
    3. Describe the pathways and key flux regulating enzymes that following nexus metabolites are an crtical intermediate of: Glucose-6-Phosphate, Pyruvate, Acetyl-CoA 
    4. List the major molecule inputs and outputs of: glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, Pentose Phosphate Pathway, Citric Acid Cycle & Oxidative Phosphorylation, Fatty Acid Synthesis and Beta Oxidation, Cholesterol Synthesis, Ketone Body Synthesis 

    Module 9b:

    Crossroads of Central Metabolic Pathways

    Crossroads of Central Metabolic Pathways

    (interactive video 14:06)

    Strong Start Study Strategy How to Hack Metabolic Pathways

    • Learn complex Metabolic Pathways by answering simple questions. 

    • Use Elaboration to facilitate deeper understanding and find clinical connections
    1. Define what is meant by a metabolic "nexus" molecule in intermediary metabolism
    2. Describe the pathways and key flux regulating enzymes that following nexus metabolites are a critical intermediate of: Glucose-6-Phosphate, Pyruvate, Acetyl-CoA
  • Module 10: Modes of Inheritance

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    You can find your StudentID in your acceptance package or within the Student Information System. For example, if your name is Green Sparty, your password would be Sp_123456789.

     

    Learning Activities Learning Objectives

    Module 10a:

    Modes of Inheritance: Introduction

     

     

    Modes of Inheritance Introduction

    (interactive video 10:20)

    1. List and describe four basic Mendelian modes of inheritance

    2. Construct and interpret a pedigree and identify the most likely mode of inheritance

    Module 10b:

    Autosomal Dominant Inheritance

    Autosomal Dominant Inheritance

    (interactive video 13:34)

    1. Recognize autosomal dominant transmission of a trait 
    2. Describe the chance of an offspring inheriting an autosomal dominant trait from an affected parent
    3. Identify factors that affect interpretation of a pedigree 
    4. Describe the difference between variable expression and pleiotropy

    Module 10c:

    Autosomal Recessive Inheritance

     Autosomal Recessive Inheritance

    (interactive video 9:55)

    1. Recognize autosomal recessive inheritance pattern in a pedigree
    2. Describe how the presence of consanguinity increases the chance of offspring having autosomal recessive traits
    3. Describe the difference between homozygosity and compound heterozygosity
    4. If an individual has an autosomal recessive condition, estimate the chance of a sibling being affected and chance of sibling being a carrier

    Module 10d:

    X-Linked Inheritance

     X-Linked Inheritance

    (interactive video 9:01)

    1. Recognize X-linked recessive inheritance pattern in a pedigree

    2. If an individual has an X-linked inheritance, estimate the chance of a sibling being affected and chance of sibling being a carrier
  • Module 11: Genetics

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    You can find your StudentID in your acceptance package or within the Student Information System. For example, if your name is Green Sparty, your password would be Sp_123456789.

     

    Learning Activities Learning Objectives

    Module 11a:

    Gene Expression

     

     

    Gene Expression

    (interactive video 11:31)

    1. Explain the central dogma of molecular biology and where each step occurs in a eukaryotic cell.
    2. Describe the steps of transcription including the major proteins involved and key product made.
    3. Describe how enhancers, silencers, and promoter regions regulate the initiation of transcription.
    4. Identify major post-transcriptional modifications including 5' capping, 3' polyadenylation, and intron splicing.
    5. Explain how alternative splicing contributes to proteomic diversity from a single gene.
    6. Describe the steps of translation including the relevant proteins involved and key product made.
    7. Recognize key elements that modify gene expression including the action of transcription factors, DNA methylation, and DNA acetylation, and explain their clinical significance.

    Module 11b:

    Cell Division and Mitosis

    Cell Division and Mitosis

    (interactive video 7:47)

    1. Outline the steps of the cell cycle and identify key regulatory proteins including cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases.
    2. Recognize the checkpoints within the cell cycle and how it relates to genomic stability.
    3. Understand how mutations in cell cycle regulators such as tumor suppressor genes and proto-oncogenes can produce disease through uncontrolled cell growth.
    4. Understand what cells in the human body undergo mitosis.
    5. Describe the stages of mitosis and track the structural and positional changes of chromosomes as mitosis progresses.
    6. Discuss the clinical significance of mitotic errors such as aneuploidy and their resulting effects.

    Module 11c:

    Meiosis

     Meiosis

    (interactive video 9:55)

    1. Understand what cells in the human body undergo meiosis.
    2. Outline the steps of meiosis and track the structural and positional changes of chromosomes as meiosis progresses.
    3. Describe the process of crossing over and its effects on the genetic diversity of resulting daughter cells.
    4. Compare and contrast the final products of meiosis and mitosis. 
    5. Discuss the clinical significance of meiotic errors such as nondisjunction, translocation, deletion, duplication, inversion, or uniparental disomy, and their potential consequences.

    Module 11d:

    DNA-Repair

     DNA-Repair

    (interactive video 11:12)

    1. Understand that DNA polymerase possesses proof-reading capabilities and mutations occur when these mechanisms fail.
    2. Understand how commonly errors in DNA replication occur during cell division and are fixed by DNA repair mechanisms.
    3. Identify common environmental causes of mutations and their effects on DNA.
    4. Describe the primary DNA repair mechanisms present in a human cell including Base Excision Repair, Nucleotide Excision Repair, Mismatch Repair, Homology Directed Repair, and Non-Homologous End Joining. 
    5. Understand how defective DNA repair mechanisms due to genetic mutations can result in various diseases.
  • Module 12: Pharmacodynamics

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    You can find your StudentID in your acceptance package or within the Student Information System. For example, if your name is Green Sparty, your password would be Sp_123456789.

     

    Learning Activities Learning Objectives

    Module 12:

    What a Drug Does to the Body: Pharmacology Concepts 

     

     

    What a Drug Does to the Body

    (interactive video 15:47)

    Start Strong 5 Tips for Learning Pharmacology

    1. Define the term receptor and describe its function
      1. List different types of receptors
      2. Explain the concept of signal transduction
      3. Define the term mechanism of action
    2. Define the term agonist; Compare a full agonist to a partial agonist
    3. Define the term antagonist; Compare a competitive antagonist to a non-competitive antagonist
    4. Draw a dose-response curve using a semi-log plot 
    5. Describe the terms efficacy and potency of a drug how alternative splicing contributes to proteomic diversity from a single gene.