### DPEP2 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: DPEP2  
**Protein Function**: DPEP2 encodes a dipeptidase that primarily hydrolyzes leukotriene D4 (LTD4) into leukotriene E4 (LTE4). The enzyme is also capable of hydrolyzing cystinyl-bis-glycine, which suggests a role in the metabolism of various peptides and possibly in the regulation of inflammatory responses given its interaction with leukotrienes.

#### 1. Associated Genes
While specific associations outside of DPEP2 often depend on broader biological contexts, genes involved in similar metabolic or inflammatory pathways might include:
- **DPEP1**: Another dipeptidase with a similar function and structure.
- **LTA4H**: Involved in leukotriene biosynthesis, thus related through the leukotriene metabolism pathway.
- **CYSTE**, **CSTA**: Genes involved in cysteine metabolism, as DPEP2 also hydrolyzes cystinyl-bis-glycine.

#### 2. Aging and Age-related Diseases
Research indicates that alterations in leukotriene metabolism may be connected to various aging-related processes and diseases such as:
- **Chronic Inflammatory Conditions**: As DPEP2 plays a role in regulating inflammatory mediators, its dysregulation could be linked to age-related inflammatory disorders.
- **Cardiovascular Diseases**: Given the involvement of leukotrienes in vascular functions, abnormalities in DPEP2 may contribute to hypertension or other cardiovascular aging processes.
- **Pulmonary Disorders**: Age-related decline in lung function may be exacerbated by the function and regulation of leukotrienes.

#### 3. Drug Interactions
Details on specific drugs targeting DPEP2 are limited. However, drugs or drug classes that inhibit leukotriene synthesis or function may indirectly interact with this gene, such as:
- **Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists**: Such as Montelukast, which are utilized in asthma treatment. These medications indirectly influence pathways that might involve DPEP2 activity.
- **Anti-inflammatory Agents**: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can have interactions with metabolic pathways affected by leukotrienes.

#### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
DPEP2 is involved in several pathways:
- **Leukotriene Metabolism**: This pathway is vital for inflammatory responses and mediates various pathophysiological processes.
- **Amino Acid Metabolism**: The hydrolysis of peptides is a key process in the degradation and recycling of amino acids, affecting protein synthesis and cellular function.
- **Inflammatory Response**: By regulating substances like LTE4, DPEP2 plays a significant role within the broader context of the immune response.

**Biological Processes**:
- Metabolism of leukotrienes and other bioactive peptides.
- Participation in inflammatory pathways.
- Regulation of peptide levels that can affect various physiological functions.

In summary, DPEP2 plays essential roles in peptide metabolism and inflammatory processes, with potential links to age-related conditions and therapeutic points of interest regarding its metabolic pathway interactions.