Purpose
The METAPAD (METAbolic PAthways Decoded) digital educational app aims to enhance the understanding of metabolic pathways among first-year medical students. Traditional rote learning methods often fall short in teaching the complex and abstract nature of these pathways. METAPAD addresses this challenge by transforming metabolic pathway learning into an engaging and interactive experience.

Methods
The METAPAD app was developed using a user-centered design approach. It has been validated for both iOS and Android platforms. The app's content is similar to previously published METAPAD study which incorporated hands-on puzzles. The digital version is more accessible with interactive elements, visual enhancements, and timed puzzles, adding a competitive and engaging aspect to the learning process. Each puzzle includes METABITES, providing learners with key learning points about each metabolic pathway.

Results
The implementation of METAPAD demonstrated significant improvements in the retention of metabolic pathway concepts. Students who used the app scored higher on post-intervention tests compared to their pre-intervention scores, indicating a substantial increase in knowledge retention (p<0.0001). Additionally, the mixed-method evaluation highlighted increased engagement with the digital version and interest in learning metabolic pathways. Students reported that the METAPAD App made learning more enjoyable and less daunting, encouraging repeated practice and collaborative problem-solving.

Conclusion
METAPAD digital app effectively bridges the gap between abstract metabolic concepts and practical understanding for first-year medical students. This innovative educational tool offers a promising alternative to conventional learning methods, fostering a more interactive and stimulating learning environment. The success of METAPAD suggests its potential applicability in other areas of technology-enhanced learning in medical education, where complex concepts can benefit from similar digital and gamified learning approaches.