### PPP2R1A Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** PPP2R1A  
**Gene Function:** PPP2R1A encodes a constant regulatory subunit of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A), which plays a crucial role in the negative control of cell growth and division. This gene primarily produces the alpha isoform of the regulatory subunit A and is essential for coordinating the assembly of the catalytic subunit and the variable regulatory B subunit.

### 1. Associated Genes

In addition to the relationships outlined in the summaries, PPP2R1A has connections with several other genes:

- **GNA12**: As mentioned, this gene promotes the dephosphorylation of microtubule-associated protein TAU.
- **AKT1**: This gene is involved in the AKT-mTOR signaling pathway for metabolism and growth.
- **SGO1**: Integral for proper chromosome segregation during mitosis.
- **RACK1**: Serves as an adapter influencing dephosphorylation functions.
- Other linked genes include **TP53** (tumor suppressor implicated in cell cycle regulation) and **MAPT** (involved in microtubule stability).

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases

Research implicates PPP2R1A in several age-related diseases, reflecting its role in maintaining cellular homeostasis:

- **Cancer**: Mutations or alterations in PPP2R1A have been linked to various cancers, including breast and ovarian cancers. The enzyme's regulatory functions are critical for maintaining normal cell cycle progression and preventing uncontrolled cell growth.
- **Neurodegenerative Disorders**: Aberrant dephosphorylation of TAU, regulated by PPP2R1A, has been implicated in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. Altered phosphorylation states of TAU are a marker in the progression of tauopathies.
- **Aging-Related Cellular Senescence**: The role of PPP2R1A in regulating APC/C (anaphase-promoting complex) could have implications in cellular aging and senescence pathways.

### 3. Drug Interactions

Though there are no specific drugs that directly target PPP2R1A, various drugs that influence the pathways it’s involved in, particularly those related to cancer therapies, could indirectly influence its function:

- **Inhibitors of Protein Kinase B (AKT)**: Since PPP2R1A regulates AKT activity, agents targeting AKT signaling pathways may interact with the downstream effects of PPP2R1A.
- **Antineoplastic Agents**: Drugs targeting the mTOR pathway may indirectly affect PPP2R1A signaling due to its role in dephosphorylating AKT1 and affecting cell proliferation.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

PPP2R1A is involved in several key biological pathways, including:

- **PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathway**: PPP2R1A plays an essential role in regulating the activation of AKT, impacting cell survival and growth.
- **Cell Cycle Regulation**: It is crucial for proper chromosome segregation and mitosis.
- **Microtubule Dynamics**: Through its regulatory role with TAU and other MAPs, PPP2R1A influences microtubule stability and function.
- **Regulation of Apoptosis**: The function of PPP2R1A links to pathways that control apoptosis and cellular stress responses.

### Conclusion

The PPP2R1A gene is integral to numerous cellular functions, particularly in maintaining cellular homeostasis and regulating the cell cycle. Its associations with aging and disease, alongside its involvement in critical signaling pathways, highlight its importance in both health and disease contexts. Further research could pave the way for targeted therapies that consider the role of PPP2R1A in various pathologies.