Metabolic networks refer to the interconnected pathways and reactions that occur within living organisms to facilitate the production and utilization of energy and biomolecules. These networks involve various metabolic processes such as glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation, among others. Researchers studying metabolic networks seek to map out the complex interactions between different molecules and enzymes involved in these processes, as well as understand how these interactions are regulated and coordinated to maintain cellular homeostasis. By analyzing metabolic networks, researchers can gain insights into the underlying mechanisms of various diseases, identify potential drug targets, and optimize biotechnological processes for the production of biofuels, pharmaceuticals, and other valuable compounds. This field of research typically involves a combination of experimental techniques, computational modeling, and systems biology approaches to unravel the complexity of metabolic networks and their impact on cellular function and physiology.