### KRT83 Gene

**Gene Symbol**: KRT83  
**Location**: Chromosome 12q13  
**Gene Type**: Protein-coding

**Summary**: The KRT83 gene encodes a type II hair keratin, which is a key structural component of hair and nails. Keratins are a family of fibrous structural proteins and are classified into two main types based on their isoelectric points: type I (acidic) and type II (neutral to basic). KRT83 particularly heterodimerizes with type I keratins to produce resilient structures needed for hair formation and integrity. This gene is primarily expressed in the hair follicles, with a significant presence in the hair cortex.

### 1. Associated Genes

While the gene summary mentions KRT83's association with other keratin genes (KRTHB1, KRTHB6, KRTHB2, KRTHB4, KRTHB5), other related keratin genes that may not be strictly associated but are part of the broader keratin family and may share functional roles or regulatory mechanisms include:

- **KRT17**: Involved in hair follicle cycling.
- **KRT14**: Associated with skin and epidermal structure.
- **KRT78**: Plays a role in keratinocyte differentiation.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases

Keratins, including KRT83, have been implicated in various age-related conditions:

- **Hair Graying**: Changes in keratin expression may alter hair pigmentation and contribute to graying.
- **Skin Aging**: Alterations in keratin expression can influence skin elasticity and hydration, playing a role in the aging process of the skin. Variants in keratin genes may contribute to skin conditions linked to aging.
- **Alopecia**: Abnormalities in keratin structure or expression can lead to hair loss disorders, which may be exacerbated by aging.

### 3. Drug Interactions

Currently, there are no specific drugs or drug classes directly known to interact with KRT83. However:

- **Topical Treatments**: Agents used in hair loss treatments (e.g., minoxidil) may indirectly influence keratin expression in hair follicles.
- **Chemotherapeutic Agents**: Some anticancer drugs can affect hair follicles and keratin expression, leading to hair loss.

Additionally, compounds that target keratin-associated pathways (e.g., retinoids for skin health) could potentially impact keratin function indirectly.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

KRT83 is involved in several biological processes and pathways:

- **Keratinization**: The process by which keratins are synthesized and assembled into intermediate filaments, critical for hair and nail formation.
- **Epithelial Development**: Plays a role in the differentiation of epithelial cells, contributing to the structural integrity of hair follicles.
- **Hair Follicle Development**: Essential for the proper morphogenesis and cycling of hair follicles.
- **Response to Wounding**: Keratins are often associated with responses to epithelial injuries, aiding in repair processes.

### Conclusion

The KRT83 gene plays a critical structural role in hair and nails, interacting with a complex network of keratin genes and contributing to significant biological processes. While its direct connections with drugs may not be well-defined, the gene has implications in aging-related alterations of hair and skin integrity. Further research may reveal additional roles in pathological conditions and therapeutic interactions.