### KRT79 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: KRT79  
**Location**: Chromosome 12q13  
**Function**: Encodes an epithelial keratin, a type of intermediate filament protein that contributes to the structural integrity and resilience of epithelial tissues. 

#### 1. Associated Genes
The KRT79 gene is part of the keratin gene family located on chromosome 12. Its close relatives include other type II keratins, such as:

- **KRT78**
- **KRT77**
- **KRT76**
- **KRT75**
- **KRT74**

Additionally, keratin genes are known to associate with the expression of keratin-associated proteins, which can modulate their function and stability.

#### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases 
While specific studies focused directly on KRT79 and aging are limited, keratins in general, including KRT79, have been implicated in various age-related conditions:

- **Skin Aging**: Keratins play a significant role in maintaining skin structure and function. Aging can lead to changes in keratin expression profiles, possibly affecting skin elasticity and hydration.
- **Muscular Dystrophies**: Abnormal keratin expression, including that of type II keratins, might be associated with muscle disorders, including some forms of muscular dystrophy. These conditions can have age-related complications.
- **Epithelial Integrity**: Age-related decline in epithelial integrity may be linked to changes in keratin production, influencing wound healing and susceptibility to epithelial-related diseases.

#### 3. Drug Interactions
Currently, specific information regarding drugs interacting directly with KRT79 is not widely documented. As a keratin gene, it may be indirectly affected by:

- **Anti-inflammatory Drugs**: These can influence keratin expression in tissues where inflammation alters epithelial function.
- **Cosmeceuticals**: Topical treatments (such as retinoids) aimed at improving skin quality may indirectly influence KRT79 expression due to their role in skin remodeling and keratinocyte differentiation.

#### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
KRT79 is involved in several key biological processes, including:

- **Cytoskeleton Organization**: Contributes to the architecture of the cytoskeleton within epithelial cells, helping maintain cell shape and structural integrity.
- **Cell Differentiation**: Plays a role in the differentiation of keratinocytes and other epithelial cells.
- **Response to Stress**: Keratin expression can be upregulated in response to mechanical or oxidative stress.
- **Wound Healing**: Keratins are crucial for processes involved in epithelial repair and regeneration after injury.

In summary, the KRT79 gene is integral to epithelial integrity, with connections to structural roles in muscle and skin tissues. Although direct links to aging and drug interactions are not extensively characterized, the gene's function within the broader keratin family suggests potential implications in these areas.