### WDR12 Gene Overview

#### Gene Symbol: WDR12
- **Gene Location**: Chromosome 3
- **Gene Type**: Protein-coding

#### Protein Summary
The WDR12 gene encodes a protein that belongs to the WD repeat protein family. WD repeat proteins typically have a structure that allows them to form multiprotein complexes crucial for various cellular functions. WDR12 specifically is a key component of the PeBoW complex, a nucleolar assembly important for the maturation of ribosomal RNAs (28S and 5.8S) and ribosome biogenesis, which is essential for protein synthesis in eukaryotic cells.

### 1. Associated Genes
While the primary summary does not provide specific associated genes, WDR12 has been shown to interact with several other proteins and potentially related genes involved in ribosome biogenesis. Notable ones include:
- **RPL5**: Ribosomal protein L5, often co-associated with nucleolar activities.
- **RPL11**: Ribosomal protein L11, integral for ribosome assembly.
- **NOC4L**: A protein involved in ribosome assembly which could interact with WDR12.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
There is limited data directly linking WDR12 to aging or age-related diseases. However, as ribosome biogenesis is a crucial cellular function, disruptions in this process are known to be associated with aging and certain age-related pathologies, including:
- **Cancer**: Mutations or dysregulation in ribosomal proteins and associated factors are linked with tumorigenesis.
- **Neurodegenerative Diseases**: Impaired protein synthesis can lead to neurodegeneration, which may be associated indirectly with WDR12's role in ribosomal maturation.

The general role of nucleolar functions and ribosomal assembly in cellular health implies a potential link, though specific studies directly focusing on WDR12 in aging or disease are needed for concrete conclusions.

### 3. Drug Interactions
Currently, specific drug interactions with WDR12 have not been well characterized in the literature. However, given the protein’s role in ribosome biogenesis, it may be indirectly affected by:
- **Antibiotics (e.g., Macrolides, Tetracyclines)**: These can target ribosomal activity and protein synthesis, potentially influencing pathways involving WDR12.
- **Chemotherapeutics**: Some cancer treatments may impact ribosome biogenesis as a means to inhibit cancer cell growth, indirectly affecting function related to WDR12.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
WDR12 is involved in several important biological pathways, including:
- **Ribosome Biogenesis**: Central to its function, as part of the PeBoW complex that facilitates the maturation of rRNA.
- **Nuclear Processes**: Implicated in RNA processing within the nucleolus, especially in the assembly and maturation of ribosomal components.
- **Cell Cycle Regulation**: Given the influence of ribosomal components on cell proliferation, WDR12 may impact signaling pathways crucial for cell cycle progression.
- **Gene Regulation**: Its involvement in multiprotein complex formation suggests a role in various regulatory mechanisms affecting gene expression.

### Conclusion
The WDR12 gene plays a vital role in ribosomal RNA maturation and is part of a multi-protein complex crucial for ribosome assembly. Its implications in cellular processes suggest potential links to age-related diseases through the disruption of normal cellular functions, but more targeted research would be necessary to elucidate specific influences and interactions.