### ACOT4 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** ACOT4  
**Location:** Peroxisome  
**Gene Function:** The ACOT4 gene encodes a protein that exhibits acyl-CoA hydrolase and succinyl-CoA hydrolase activities. It plays a critical role in several metabolic processes including the hydrolysis of acyl-CoAs into free fatty acids and coenzyme A (CoASH), effectively regulating intracellular levels of these metabolites. The enzyme specifically functions as a peroxisomal succinyl-coenzyme A thioesterase and is also capable of hydrolyzing glutaryl-CoA and long-chain saturated acyl-CoAs.

### Additional Associations

1. **Associated Genes:**
   - While specific genes directly linked to ACOT4 may not be extensively documented in summary resources, related metabolic pathways often involve enzymes such as those coded by **ACOT3**, **ACOT7**, or **ACOT8**, which exhibit similar acyl-CoA thioesterase activities.
   - Genes involved in the metabolism of fatty acids or related to peroxisomal functions, such as **ACOX1** (Acyl-CoA oxidase 1), may also be indirectly associated.

2. **Aging and Age-related Diseases:**
   - Although the direct relationship of ACOT4 with aging and age-related diseases is not thoroughly characterized, alterations in fatty acid metabolism and disruptions in peroxisomal function have been implicated in conditions like metabolic syndromes and neurodegenerative diseases. Since ACOT4 is involved in such metabolic pathways, potential dysregulation may contribute to the aging process or conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, where impaired lipid metabolism is a key concern.
   - Some studies suggest that enhancing acyl-CoA hydrolase activity might mitigate the accumulation of toxic lipid metabolites, thereby influencing age-related degeneration.

3. **Drug Interactions:**
   - Specific drug interactions with ACOT4 are not comprehensively characterized in literature. However, therapeutic agents that modulate fatty acid metabolism, such as fibrates (used to treat dyslipidemia) or drugs affecting peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), might indirectly influence the activity of ACOT4, given its metabolic role. Future studies might elucidate more discrete drug interactions.
   - Certain anti-inflammatory drugs could also be relevant, considering that inflammation often ties into metabolic disturbances.

4. **Pathways and Biological Processes:**
   - **Metabolic Processes:** ACOT4 is involved in carboxylic acid metabolic processes, including:
     - Saturated monocarboxylic acid metabolism
     - Succinyl-CoA metabolic process
   - **Regulatory Roles:** It impacts lipid metabolism regulation through acyl-CoA hydrolysis, crucial for maintaining cellular energy homeostasis.
   - **Peroxisomal Functions:** Given its localization, ACOT4 is involved in peroxisomal beta-oxidation pathways, which break down fatty acids and detoxify reactive oxygen species (ROS).

### Conclusion

The ACOT4 gene, through its role in hydrolyzing acyl-CoAs, serves vital functions in lipid metabolism and potential implications in the aging process and related metabolic disorders. Understanding its broader role in signaling pathways and drug interactions remains a critical area for future investigation in metabolic research and therapeutic development.