### NYAP1 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** NYAP1 (Nuclear Yellow-Associated Protein 1)

**Function:** NYAP1 is primarily implicated in neuron projection morphogenesis and is involved in phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling pathways. The protein encoded by this gene activates the PI3K pathway and recruits the WAVE1 complex, which plays a role in regulating actin polymerization, crucial for the development of neuronal processes.

### 1. Associated Genes

NYAP1 has been associated with several genes involved in similar biological processes, particularly those involved in neuronal function and cytoskeletal dynamics. Noteworthy associations may include:
- **WAVE1 (WAVEs are WASP-family proteins)**: Involved in actin polymerization.
- **PIK3CA (Phosphoinositide-3-kinase, catalytic subunit alpha)**: A part of the PI3K signaling pathway.
- **RAC1 (Rac Family Small GTPase 1)**: A member of the Rho family, involved in signaling related to actin cytoskeleton rearrangements.

### 2. Aging or Age-Related Diseases

Research has suggested that disruptions in the PI3K pathway and alterations in neuronal dynamics are implicated in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. While direct links between NYAP1 and age-related conditions are still under investigation, given its role in neuronal morphogenesis, changes in its expression or function may impact:
- **Cognitive decline**: Associated with aging and neurodegeneration.
- **Neuronal plasticity**: Changes in this process can be related to age and neurodegenerative processes.

### 3. Drug Interactions

While specific drugs that directly target NYAP1 have not been conclusively identified, several drug classes that influence the PI3K pathway may indirectly impact NYAP1 functionality:
- **PI3K inhibitors (e.g., Idelalisib, Copanlisib)**: These could affect the signaling pathway involving NYAP1.
- **Cytoskeletal modifiers (e.g., Latrunculin, Cytochalasins)**: These affect actin dynamics, potentially interacting with the pathways NYAP1 is involved in.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes 

NYAP1 is known to participate in several biological pathways and processes, including:
- **PI3K-Akt signaling pathway**: Fundamental in cell growth, survival, and metabolism.
- **Regulation of actin cytoskeleton**: Modulating neuronal morphology and synaptic functions.
- **Cell adhesion**: Important for neuron-neuron and neuron-glia interactions.
- **Neuronal development**: Involved in establishing the proper structure and function of neurons.

### Summary

NYAP1 is a critical gene in neuronal morphology and acts through key signaling pathways that are crucial for neuronal health and development. Its involvement in aging and neurodegenerative diseases, along with potential drug interactions, emphasizes the significance of understanding this gene in both basic biological research and clinical contexts. Further studies are necessary to fully elucidate its role in health and disease, particularly concerning aging-related processes.