### DGKE Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** DGKE  
**Function:** The DGKE gene encodes the enzyme diacylglycerol kinase epsilon, which plays a pivotal role in the phosphatidylinositol (PI) cycle by converting diacylglycerol (DAG) into phosphatidic acid (PA). This conversion is essential for regulating lipid signaling pathways that control various cellular functions. Notably, DGKE displays substrate specificity for arachidonyl-containing diacylglycerol.

### 1. Associated Genes
While the specific summaries do not mention associated genes, DGKE may interact or be linked with various genes involved in lipid metabolism, signal transduction, and the phosphatidylinositol signaling pathway. Some potentially relevant genes include:

- **PLCG1 (Phospholipase C gamma 1):** Involved in phosphoinositide signaling, which plays a role in DAG generation.
- **PIK3CA (Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit alpha):** Part of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway, which modulates signaling related to cell growth and metabolism.
- **INPP5D (Inositol polyphosphate-5-phosphatase D):** Involved in the regulation of inositol phosphate levels, thereby influencing DAG and PI signaling pathways.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
Research surrounding DGKE is still emerging, but some studies suggest links between diacylglycerol signaling and age-related diseases, including:

- **Cardiovascular Disease:** Alterations in lipid metabolism, including changes in DAG levels, may contribute to heart conditions commonly seen in aging individuals.
- **Neurodegenerative Disorders:** Dysregulation of lipid signaling could play a role in diseases like Alzheimer's, where lipid metabolism is affected, although direct links to DGKE remain under investigation.

### 3. Drug Interactions
As of October 2023, specific drugs or drug classes that directly target the DGKE enzyme have not been well defined. However, drugs affecting phosphoinositide signaling pathways, such as phosphoinositide 3-kinase inhibitors (e.g., idelalisib) or drugs affecting lipid metabolism (e.g., statins), may indirectly influence DGKE activity by altering lipid levels.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
DGKE is involved in multiple cellular pathways, including but not limited to:

- **Phosphatidylinositol Signaling Pathway:** Integral for cell signaling, affecting cell growth, survival, and metabolism.
- **Lipid Metabolism:** Contributes to the biosynthesis of complex lipids through the regulation of diacylglycerol and phosphatidic acid levels, which are crucial for membrane integrity and signaling.
- **Regulation of Cell Signaling:** Acts as a modulator of pathways mediated by various second messengers that can lead to opposite biological effects depending on the context of signaling.
  
Research into DGKE continues to evolve, suggesting significant roles in cellular signaling and potential implications in health and disease, particularly relating to lipid dynamics and metabolic disorders.