### WNK3 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** WNK3  
**Alternative Names:** WNK3, TGFB1I1 (transforming growth factor beta 1-induced transcript 1), KIAA0631

**Encoded Protein:** WNK3 (WNK lysine deficient protein kinase 3)

### 1. Associated Genes
In addition to the genes mentioned in the summaries (like OXSR1, SPAK, SLC transporters, and NEDD4L), WNK3 is associated with:

- **WNK1, WNK4**: Other members of the WNK kinase family involved in similar regulatory pathways.
- **SGK1**: Serum/glucocorticoid-regulated kinase 1, which often interacts in signaling pathways affected by WNK kinases.
- **MAPK pathways**: Some kinases in the MAPK signaling cascade can interact with WNK3.
- **Potassium channels**: Including KCNJ1 and KCNJ2, as their activities are modulated via scaffolding roles of WNK3.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
While direct studies specifically linking WNK3 to aging or age-related diseases are limited, its role in electrolyte homeostasis and cellular stress response may have implications in these contexts:

- **Hypertension and Kidney Disease**: Altered WNK3 activity can contribute to hypertension through its regulation of sodium and potassium handling in the kidneys, and aberrant functioning can lead to age-related kidney diseases.
- **Cellular Stress Response**: WNK3's involvement in mediating regulatory volume increase and cell survival pathways suggests that it may play a protective role in age-related cellular deterioration and in conditions associated with cellular stress.

### 3. Drug Interactions
Although there are currently no specific drugs universally recognized to directly target WNK3, research has indicated potential interactions with:

- **Diuretics**: Thiazide diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide target the NCC (SLC12A3) which is regulated by WNK3. Therefore, WNK3 activity may indirectly influence the efficacy of these drugs.
- **Potassium Channel Blockers**: Since WNK3 regulates potassium channels, drugs affecting these channels may have a complex interaction involving WNK3.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
WNK3 is involved in various biological processes and signaling pathways, including:

- **Electrolyte Homeostasis**: Direct involvement in the regulation of sodium and potassium transporters.
- **Cell Survival Pathways**: The caspase-dependent pathway that influences apoptosis and the survival of cells under stress conditions.
- **Response to Hyperosmotic Stress**: As a sensor for osmotic changes, WNK3 plays a key role in cellular mechanisms that adapt to hyperosmotic conditions through regulatory volume increase.
- **Phase Separation**: Mediating the formation of membraneless organelles which can concentrate kinases and substrates for more efficient signaling.

### Conclusion
WNK3 is a crucial serine-threonine kinase implicated in diverse biological functions, particularly in electrolyte balance and cellular stress response mechanisms. Its interactions with various signaling pathways and cellular processes indicate its importance not only in normal physiological conditions but also potentially in age-related diseases such as hypertension and renal dysfunction. Further research may elucidate more detailed roles in aging and targeted drug interactions.