### TTLL4 Gene

**Gene Symbol**: TTLL4  
**Location**: Human Chromosome 17q21.31  

**Gene Function and Proteins Summary**:
TTLL4 encodes a member of the tubulin tyrosine ligase-like (TTLL) family of enzymes and is known to have monoglutamylase activity. It primarily adds a single glutamate to the gamma-carboxyl group of specific glutamate residues in target proteins. This process contributes to microtubule cytoskeleton organization and protein polyglutamylation, which is critical in various cellular processes. 

TTLL4 preferentially modifies the beta-tubulin, but it also targets other proteins such as nucleosome assembly proteins NAP1L1 and NAP1L4, as well as the nontubulin protein CGAS, which is involved in the cellular antiviral response. Its modification of KLF4 plays an important role in embryogenesis and maintenance of pluripotent states in somatic cell reprogramming.

### 1. Associated Genes
- **KLF4**: Plays a significant role in stem cell biology and embryonic development.
- **CGAS (Cyclic GMP-AMP Synthase)**: Key in generating the second messenger that triggers innate immune responses.
- **NAP1L1 and NAP1L4**: Components involved in nucleosome assembly.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
While specific studies linking TTLL4 directly to aging or age-related diseases may be limited, its role in stem cell maintenance and embryogenesis suggests potential implications in regenerative medicine and aging processes. Alterations in microtubule dynamics and post-translational modifications, such as polyglutamylation, have been implicated in cellular senescence and age-related neurodegenerative diseases. Any dysregulation of TTLL4 could potentially affect processes related to cell turnover and senescence, possibly linking it to aging phenotypes and diseases like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s.

### 3. Drug Interactions
As of the latest updates (up to October 2023), there are no specific drugs or drug classes definitively known to interact with TTLL4. Research into pathways influenced by TTLL4 may uncover potential pharmacological targets in cancer, stem cell therapy, or neuroprotection, given its role in cellular processes. 

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
TTLL4 is involved in several key biological processes:
- **Microtubule Cytoskeleton Organization**: Essential for maintaining the structure and function of the cytoskeleton.
- **Protein Polyglutamylation**: A post-translational modification influencing various cellular mechanisms.
- **Blastocyst Development**: Involved in the early stages of embryonic development.
- **Ciliary Function**: Implicated in the formation or maintenance of cilia.
- **Regulation of Pluripotent States**: Influencing cellular differentiation and reprogramming processes.

**Note**: Further investigations into TTLL4 may elucidate additional roles in development and disease, particularly in cancer research and regenerative medicine, as well as its direct contributions to the aging process.