### TBCK Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** TBCK  
**Description:** The TBCK (TBC1 Domain Containing Kinase) gene encodes a protein that contains a protein kinase domain, a Rhodanase-like domain, and a Tre-2/Bub2/Cdc16 (TBC) domain. It is involved in the regulation of cell growth, cell proliferation, and actin organization through interactions with the mTOR signaling pathway.

### 1. Associated Genes
TBCK may be associated with several other genes and complexes, particularly through its role in the mTOR pathway. Notable genes and proteins include:

- **MTOR** (mammalian target of rapamycin): Central to nutrient sensing and cell growth regulation.
- **RAPTOR** (regulatory associated protein of mTOR): Part of the mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1).
- **RPS6KB1** (ribosomal protein S6 kinase B1): A downstream effector of mTOR signaling.
- **TSC1/TSC2** (tuberous sclerosis complex): Tumor suppressor genes that negatively regulate mTOR signaling.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
Research indicates that dysregulation in the mTOR pathway, which TBCK affects, can contribute to various age-related conditions. Some points of interest include:

- **Cellular Senescence:** The mTOR pathway is implicated in cellular aging and senescence, which play roles in tissue degeneration and age-related diseases.
- **Neurodegenerative Diseases:** Alterations in mTOR signaling have been linked to neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease.
- **Cancer:** Dysregulated mTOR signaling is associated with various cancers, and since TBCK influences this pathway, its expression could potentially impact tumorigenesis, particularly in aging populations.

### 3. Drug Interactions
Drugs that modulate the mTOR signaling pathway can potentially interact with TBCK. Notable drug classes include:

- **mTOR inhibitors:** Such as Rapamycin (Sirolimus) and its analogs (Everolimus, Temsirolimus) specifically target mTOR signaling and might indirectly impact TBCK's function.
- **Antineoplastic drugs:** Some cancer therapies target pathways influenced by mTOR signaling, hence have an indirect relationship with TBCK gene activity.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
TBCK is involved in various biological processes and pathways, including:

- **mTOR signaling pathway:** Regulates cell growth, cell proliferation, and metabolism.
- **Regulation of actin cytoskeleton organization:** While influencing cell shape and migration, this is critical for both normal cell function and in response to stimuli.
- **Cell cycle regulation:** Involvement in the regulation of the cell cycle may contribute to its role in proliferation and growth.
- **Transcriptional regulation:** TBCK may affect the expression of genes involved in the mTOR complex.

Through these activities, TBCK is implicated not only in routine cellular functions but also in broader physiological processes vital for development, aging, and disease states. Understanding its precise role enhances insights into therapeutic approaches targeting age-related diseases and cancers.