### PCDHGC4 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** PCDHGC4

**Location:** Chromosome 5

**Gene Family:** Protocadherin gamma gene cluster

**Cluster Composition:** The protocadherin gamma gene cluster consists of 22 genes divided into three subfamilies (A, B, and C), with a high immunoglobulin-like domain organization.

**Structure:**
- **Variable Region Exons:** 22 large exons which encode the extracellular region, comprising six cadherin ectodomains and a transmembrane region.
- **Constant Region Exons:** Three exons common to all genes in the cluster, encoding the cytoplasmic region.

**Function:** PCDHGC4 encodes a neural cadherin-like cell adhesion protein that likely plays an essential role in establishing and maintaining specific neuronal connections in the brain. Its potential function as a calcium-dependent adhesion protein highlights its importance in synaptic functions and cellular interactions in neural tissues.

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### Additional Information

1. **Associated Genes:**
   - Although specific genes in the context of PCDHGC4's associations were not mentioned in the provided summaries, members of the protocadherin gamma cluster (e.g., PCDHGC1, PCDHGC2) and related protocadherin families (such as PCDH15, PCDH1) are worth noting. Interactions may occur in distinct cellular adhesion processes, particularly in the nervous system.

2. **Aging and Age-Related Diseases:**
   - There is limited direct evidence linking PCDHGC4 specifically to aging or age-related diseases in public databases. However, given its role in neuronal connectivity, it may have implications in neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer's disease) where synaptic integrity and neuronal connections are compromised. Further studies on the protocadherin gamma cluster's role in neuronal health could provide insights into age-related cognitive decline.

3. **Drug Interactions:**
   - As of my last update in October 2023, there is no specific information readily available regarding drugs or drug classes that directly interact with PCDHGC4. Research into targeted therapies and pharmacological agents that may modulate cell adhesion and signaling pathways involving protocadherins could provide future leads.

4. **Pathways and Biological Processes:**
   - PCDHGC4 is implicated in several biological processes:
     - **Cell Adhesion:** As part of the protocadherin family, it participates in calcium-dependent cell adhesion, critical for nervous system architecture.
     - **Neuronal Development:** Involved in the formation and maintenance of neural synapses, consistent with its role in cell-cell communication.
     - **Regulation of Neural Networks:** Potential contribution to the plasticity of neural networks, which might impact learning and memory processes.

In summary, PCDHGC4 is a significant component of the protocadherin gamma gene cluster with vital roles in neural adhesion and connectivity, though its specific interactions and implications in aging and therapy require further exploration.