### WSB2 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: WSB2  
**Function**: The WSB2 gene encodes a member of the WD-protein subfamily, containing several WD-repeats and a SOCS box. It's believed to play a role in ubiquitination mediated by E3 ligase complexes, specifically in targeting proteins for proteasomal degradation.

### 1. Associated Genes
While specific genes associated with WSB2 may vary depending on the context, some candidate genes that are typically associated with the pathways involving WSB2 may include:

- **CUL1**: A key component of the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway and also part of the SCF (SKP1-CUL1-F-box protein) complex.
- **SKP1**: Another component of the SCF E3 ligase complex which works closely with WSB2.
- **SOCS genes**: The Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling (SOCS) family may interact with WSB2 given the presence of a SOCS box.

Moreover, WSB2 may interact with various substrates rather than being directly associated with other genes.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
Investigations into the role of WSB2 in aging have largely been indirect. However, due to its involvement in proteasomal degradation and turnover of key regulatory proteins, dysregulation may contribute to:

- **Cancer**: Abnormalities in the ubiquitin-proteasome system are frequently observed in various cancers. WSB2's role in E3 ligase complexes could imply involvement in cancer pathogenesis.
- **Neurodegenerative Diseases**: Given that proper protein degradation is crucial for neuronal health, WSB2 may have roles in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, although specific studies linking WSB2 directly to these diseases may be limited.
- **Metabolic Disorders**: The regulation of metabolic proteins through ubiquitination can influence conditions related to aging; however, this needs further exploration.

### 3. Drugs or Drug Classes Interacting with WSB2
While specific drugs directly targeting WSB2 may not be well-documented in the literature as of October 2023, several general classes of drugs that influence proteasomal pathways or E3 ligase function may indirectly affect its activity:

- **Proteasome Inhibitors** (e.g., Bortezomib): These drugs block proteasome function and could lead to aberrant accumulation of proteins that WSB2 would normally help degrade.
- **Epigenetic Modifiers**: Compounds that influence post-translational modifications can impact E3 ligase complexes potentially alongside WSB2's functions.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
WSB2 is involved in various biological processes such as:

- **Ubiquitin-Proteasome Pathway**: It plays a crucial role in marking proteins for ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation, which is vital for cellular protein homeostasis.
- **Cell Cycle Regulation**: Implicated in processes related to cell division, where regulated protein turnover is necessary.
- **Signal Transduction**: The SOCS box associating with E3 ligase complexes suggests a role in cytokine signaling pathways, likely impacting how cells respond to growth factors and hormonal signals.

Given its important functions, continued research into WSB2 may uncover additional roles in cellular processes, interactions, and implications in health and disease.