### ABCC4 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: ABCC4  
**Gene Description**: The ABCC4 gene encodes a member of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter superfamily, specifically classified within the MRP (multidrug resistance-associated protein) subfamily. This protein primarily functions as an ATP-dependent transporter that extrudes physiological compounds and xenobiotics from cells, playing crucial roles in detoxification and cellular signaling.

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### 1. Associated Genes
ABCC4 interacts or is associated with several genes based on functional and pathway analyses:
- **ABCC1 (MRP1)**: Another member of the MRP subfamily involved in drug resistance.
- **ABCC3 (MRP3)**: Plays a role in the transport of organic anions and drug resistance.
- **SLC22A4 and SLC22A5**: Transporters that can also modulate drug disposition and plasma levels.
- **GST enzymes (e.g., GSTP1)**: Glutathione S-transferases that are involved in conjugation processes, influencing the logistic pathways of substrates transported by ABCC4.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
While there may not be extensive direct literature linking ABCC4 with aging, its role in drug metabolism and detoxification has implications for age-related conditions:
- **Liver Function**: As individuals age, liver function can decline, affecting the activity of drug transporters, including ABCC4. This may lead to altered drug clearance and increased susceptibility to drug toxicity.
- **Cancer**: Given its involvement in multidrug resistance, ABCC4 may play a role in age-related cancer treatment outcomes by influencing the efficacy of chemotherapeutic agents.
- **Neurodegenerative Disorders**: Prostaglandin and leukotriene transport influenced by ABCC4 may impact neuroinflammation processes tied to aging.

### 3. Drug Interactions
ABCC4 has been studied for interactions with various drugs, including:
- **Anticancer Agents**: ABCC4 is known to confer resistance to drugs such as methotrexate, doxorubicin, and vincristine.
- **Antibiotics**: Certain antibiotics may be substrates or have modified pharmacokinetics in the presence of ABCC4.
- **Antivirals**: Some antiviral drugs that rely on lipid metabolism for their activity may interact with ABCC4.
- **Prostaglandins**: Compounds that are often implicated in inflammatory conditions, potentially influencing ABCC4-mediated transport.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
The ABCC4 gene is involved in various critical pathways and biological processes, including:
- **Drug Metabolism**: Involved in the detoxification of drugs and other xenobiotics.
- **Transport of Organic Anions**: Plays a significant role in the transport of bile acids, steroid conjugates, and other organic molecules critical for various physiological functions.
- **Cell Signaling Pathways**: The transport of cyclic AMP (cAMP) and other cyclic nucleotides indicates involvement in signaling cascades that affect processes like cell growth and apoptosis.
- **Inflammatory Response**: The transport of leukotrienes (LTC4 and LTB4) suggests a role in modulating inflammation, which is critical in various pathophysiological contexts, including cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

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### Conclusion
The ABCC4 gene is a critical component of the ATP-binding cassette transporter family, playing significant roles in drug resistance, cellular detoxification, and signaling. Its associated pathways and gene interactions underscore its multifaceted nature, influencing not only pharmacokinetics but also potential implications in aging and age-related diseases. Understanding ABCC4's functions offers insights into therapeutic strategies for conditions related to its dysregulation, particularly in oncology and toxicology contexts.