### ATP5F1C Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** ATP5F1C  
**Function:** This gene encodes the gamma subunit of the mitochondrial ATP synthase, an enzyme critical for ATP production via oxidative phosphorylation.

### 1. Associated Genes
While the summaries mention no specific associations, the ATP5F1C gene can be related to several other mitochondrial genes involved in ATP synthesis and oxidative phosphorylation, including:

- **ATP5F1A & ATP5F1B** – These genes encode other subunits of the F1 sector of ATP synthase.
- **ATPase, H+ transporting, lysosomal 13 (ATP13A2)** – Involved in mitochondrial function and linked with neurodegeneration.
- **MT-ATP6 & MT-ATP8** – Mitochondrial-encoded genes critical for ATP synthase function.
- **NDUFS1, NDUFA9** – Components of the electron transport chain that affect mitochondrial respiration and ATP production.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
There is significant evidence to suggest that mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with aging and several age-related diseases. Alterations in the ATP5F1C gene and the overall function of ATP synthase are implicated in:

- **Neurodegenerative diseases** (e.g., Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s) where energy metabolism in neurons is affected.
- **Muscle wasting and sarcopenia** – Energy deficits in skeletal muscle with age.
- **Metabolic syndrome** and **type II diabetes** – Conditions correlated with compromised oxidative phosphorylation.
- **Mitochondrial diseases** that exhibit age-related phenotypic variability, often due to gradual mitochondrial dysfunction.

### 3. Drug Interactions
Certain drugs and compounds that influence mitochondrial function may interact with the ATP synthase complex where ATP5F1C is a component:

- **Oligomycin** – A known inhibitor of ATP synthase which can specifically affect the F0 component, leading to reduced ATP production.
- **Doxorubicin** – A chemotherapeutic agent that impacts mitochondrial function and can lead to cardiotoxicity, thus indirectly affecting ATP production.
- **Metformin** – While primarily affecting glucose metabolism, metformin’s role in enhancing mitochondrial function could be indirectly linked to ATP synthase activity.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
ATP5F1C is involved in numerous critical biological pathways:

- **Oxidative phosphorylation** – The mitochondrial pathway that produces ATP using the proton gradient generated by the electron transport chain.
- **ATP biosynthetic process** – Directly linked to the synthesis of ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate.
- **Energy metabolism** – Playing a significant role in cellular energy homeostasis.
- **Regulation of apoptosis** – Mitochondrial ATP production is associated with cell survival and death pathways.

### Summary
The ATP5F1C gene is crucial for mitochondrial ATP synthesis through oxidative phosphorylation. Its proper functioning is vital for energy metabolism and is implicated in various age-related diseases and mitochondrial disorders. Given its connection to multiple biological systems and potential drug interactions, ATP5F1C is a significant focus in the study of cellular energy dynamics and its broader implications in metabolic health and disease.