### NRDC Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** NRDC  
**Location:** Human Chromosome (exact location information)  
**Gene Type:** Protein Coding

#### Gene Function

The NRDC (neuregulin receptor activity- modulating protein) gene encodes a zinc-dependent endopeptidase that predominantly cleaves peptide substrates at the N-terminus of arginine residues within dibasic peptide pairs. As a member of the peptidase M16 family, NRDC plays a vital role in modulating signaling pathways by activating various proteins involved in cell migration and proliferation.

#### Associated Genes

1. **BACE1**: β-Site APP Cleaving Enzyme 1; involved in the cleavage of amyloid precursor protein, relevant in Alzheimer's disease.
2. **ADAM17**: A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase 17; involved in the shedding of membrane proteins and implicated in various processes such as inflammation and cell signaling.
3. **Nrg1** (Neuregulin 1): Involved in cell signaling during development, neurogenesis, and synaptic plasticity.
4. **EGFR** (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor): Interacts with heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor and is vital for various cellular processes including proliferation and differentiation.
5. **OGDH** (2-oxoglutarate dehydrogenase): Associated with multiple metabolic pathways, involved in energy production.

#### Aging and Age-Related Diseases

While direct associations of the NRDC gene with aging or age-related diseases are limited, its role in neuropeptide signaling and regulation of myelination makes it relevant in the context of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. The neuroregulatory functions of NRDC can potentially influence age-related cognitive decline and neuronal health. Additionally, as NRDC is involved in pathways relevant to cell proliferation and migration, it may be implicated in age-related tissue repair processes and cancer biology.

#### Drug Interactions

Currently, specific drugs or drug classes that directly interact with NRDC are not well documented in publicly accessible literature. However, given its role in signaling pathways, compounds that affect neurodegenerative pathologies or cellular proliferation (e.g., those targeting BACE1 or ADAM17) may indirectly influence NRDC activity.

#### Pathways and Biological Processes

NRDC is involved in several key biological processes, including:

1. **Neuregulin-ERBB Signaling**: It plays a role in regulating the interaction between neuregulins and their receptors, critical for proper neuronal and cardiac function.
2. **EGFR Signaling Pathway**: Involved in modulating the activity of this pathway, influencing cellular migration and growth.
3. **Notch Signaling**: Its potential involvement in this pathway may indicate a role in cell fate determination and differentiation.
4. **Axonal Growth and Myelination**: As indicated, NRDC is essential for the positive regulation of axonal maturation and myelination processes.

Research on NRDC continues, and as investigations proceed, additional functions, interactions, and clinical implications may emerge.