### GSTA3 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** GSTA3  
**Location:** Chromosome 6  
**Gene Family:** Alpha class of glutathione S-transferases (GSTs)  

**Function:**  
The GSTA3 gene encodes for an enzyme belonging to the alpha class of glutathione S-transferases, which play a crucial role in detoxifying harmful compounds through the conjugation of reduced glutathione to electrophilic substrates. Specifically, GSTA3 is involved in the isomerization of steroid hormone precursors, contributing to the biosynthesis of testosterone and progesterone.

### 1. Associated Genes
While specific genes directly associated with GSTA3 are not extensively documented, it's known that it is part of a gene cluster on chromosome 6 alongside various other alpha-class GST genes (such as GSTA1, GSTA2, etc.). Interactions may also occur with genes involved in steroid hormone synthesis and metabolism, including:

- **CYP17A1**: Involved in steroidogenesis.
- **CYP19A1**: Aromatase gene involved in estrogen biosynthesis.
- **HSD3B**: 3-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase involved in the conversion of delta-5 steroids to delta-4 steroids (including testosterone and progesterone).

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
GSTA3 has been implicated in various aspects related to aging and age-related diseases:

- **Oxidative Stress**: As a detoxifying enzyme, GSTA3 can influence oxidative stress levels, which are often elevated in aging. Impaired GSTA3 function may contribute to increased cellular damage and aging-related pathologies.
- **Cancer**: Given its role in detoxifying electrophiles, dysregulation or variants of the GSTA3 protein could affect susceptibility to certain cancers, particularly those influenced by environmental toxins.
- **Hormonal Balance**: Alterations in steroid hormone synthesis, linked to aging processes, could lead to diseases related to hormone imbalance such as metabolic syndrome.

### 3. Drug Interactions
GSTA3 may interact with various drugs, particularly those that require detoxification processes:

- **Chemotherapeutic Agents**: Certain anticancer drugs are glutathione conjugates and may be affected by GSTA3 activity.
- **Anti-inflammatory Drugs**: Some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been noted to interact with the GSTs in general, possibly influencing their effectiveness or toxicity.
- **Drugs metabolized by Cytochrome P450**: Variants in GSTA3 can influence the metabolism of drugs processed by P450 enzymes.

### 4. Biological Pathways and Processes

- **Detoxification Pathway**: GSTA3 is involved in the conjugation of reduced glutathione to various harmful substances, both endogenous and exogenous.
- **Steroid Hormone Biosynthesis**: Specifically participates in the isomerization of steroid precursors, integral to testosterone and progesterone biosynthesis.
- **Cellular Defense Mechanisms**: Plays a role in protecting cells from oxidative damage by detoxifying reactive electrophiles.
- **Metabolic Pathways**: May have interactions with metabolic pathways for xenobiotic metabolism and hormone synthesis.

### Summary
GSTA3 is an essential enzyme in human physiology, particularly within the context of detoxification and steroid hormone biosynthesis. Its implications in aging and age-related diseases, as well as various drug interactions, underline its significance in both health and disease processes.