### HSD17B13 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: HSD17B13  
**Function**: HSD17B13 encodes a protein with oxidoreductase activity, particularly acting on the CH-OH group of donors, utilizing NAD or NADP as acceptors. The gene is crucial for lipid metabolism and acts primarily in the liver. Its enzymatic activity includes the oxidation of lipid substrates such as 17beta-estradiol, retinol, retinal, and leukotriene B4.

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### Additional Information

1. **Associated Genes**: 
   While the summaries do not mention specific associated genes, research indicates that HSD17B13 is functionally related to several other genes involved in lipid metabolism and liver function. These may include:
   - **HSD17B1**: Another member of the hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase family involved in steroid metabolism.
   - **FASN**: Fatty acid synthase, involved in lipid biosynthesis.
   - **PPARG**: Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, a regulator of lipid metabolism.

2. **Aging and Age-Related Diseases**: 
   - **Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)**: Variants in HSD17B13 have been linked to susceptibility to NAFLD. This condition becomes more prevalent with age and is associated with metabolic syndrome.
   - **Cardiovascular disease**: Considering HSD17B13’s role in lipid metabolism, abnormalities in its function could contribute to dyslipidemia and age-related cardiovascular diseases.
   - **Cognitive aging**: There is emerging evidence suggesting recent associations between lipid metabolism disorders and neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease.

3. **Drug Interactions**:
   While specific drugs targeting HSD17B13 are not well-documented, its activity in lipid metabolism suggests potential interactions with drugs in the following classes:
   - **Statins**: These are lipid-lowering medications that may indirectly influence the metabolic pathways HSD17B13 is involved in, although direct targeting of HSD17B13 is not established.
   - **Fibrates**: Similar to statins, fibrates (such as fenofibrate) also aim to modify lipid levels and may affect the expression or activity of lipid metabolizing enzymes.
   - **Hormonal therapies**: Given HSD17B13’s role in steroid metabolism, it may be influenced by hormonal therapies affecting estrogen or other steroid hormones.

4. **Pathways and Biological Processes**:
   - **Lipid Metabolism**: HSD17B13 is integral to lipid biosynthetic processes, specifically in the regulation of fatty acid and steroid metabolism.
   - **Cholesterol Metabolism**: It may play a role in cholesterol homeostasis within the liver.
   - **Steroid Hormone Biosynthesis**: The gene is involved in the conversion and metabolism of steroid hormones.
   - **Inflammatory Response**: Catalyzing the oxidation of leukotrienes suggests its involvement in inflammatory signaling pathways.

Overall, HSD17B13 is a significant player in the metabolic landscape of the liver, with implications for aging and associated diseases, particularly those involving lipid dysregulation. Further research may elucidate its precise roles in disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic interventions.