Janjae Myfanwy S. Mateo, RN

I learned the fundamental concept of free energy and how ATP couples reactions. I struggled with calculating the actual delta G values and thermodynamic math. Applying this to daily living, I treat my time and focus like ATP—making sure I only spend it on high-yield tasks that actually push me forward.

I learned about oxygen toxicity and how enzymes manage redox potentials. I struggled with distinguishing the specific roles of peroxidases versus oxygenases. In my daily life, this chapter gives me a literal molecular reason to eat more fruits and vegetables to keep my own oxidative stress in check.

I learned the intricacies of the proton motive force. I struggled to remember the exact sequence of electron carriers and their specific chemical inhibitors. On a practical level, it makes me hyper-aware of my breathing during stressful exams, knowing I need constant oxygen delivery to keep my own tissues functioning.

I learned the structural differences and properties of physiological sugars. I had a difficult time visualizing Haworth projections and identifying anomeric carbons. In daily life, this makes me much more conscious of the glycemic index of my study snacks and how my body handles them.

I learned the amphibolic nature of the TCA cycle as a metabolic crossroad. I heavily struggled with drawing the structures of intermediates like alpha-ketoglutarate. This pathway taught me why starving myself to study is entirely counterproductive to my overall energy yield.

I learned how different organs cooperate during fed and fasting states. I struggled to map out the conflicting anabolic versus catabolic hormones. I apply this now by timing my meals properly around my most intensive study blocks to avoid brain fog.

I learned the processes of glycogenolysis and glycogenesis. I struggled with memorizing the various branching and debranching enzymes. In reality, it gives me a profound appreciation for my liver, which literally sustains my blood sugar through long, grueling 4-hour morning lectures.

I learned the net yield of ATP and pyruvate from a single glucose molecule. I struggled with remembering which kinase and mutase enzymes catalyze the irreversible steps. I think about this pathway every time I experience a sudden energy crash after a sugary coffee binge.

I learned how to navigate a virtual laboratory setting, and I enjoyed doing this so much but I got less than 100% in other experiments and I wanted to repeat it so bad but I still have a lot of things to do. I initially struggled with the interface controls, but the visual, hands-on application was a highly rewarding break from purely reading textbooks.

I learned about ribose synthesis for DNA and RNA. I struggled with the complicated transketolase and transaldolase reactions. Applying this to my life, it helps me appreciate my body's silent cellular repair mechanisms when I am recovering from a tiring, sleep-deprived week.

I learned the Cori cycle and how the body synthesizes glucose from scratch. I struggled with the high energetic cost and the bypass enzymes. As a daily application, I respect my body's extreme physiological measures to keep my brain functioning when I accidentally skip breakfast.