### RTCA-AS1 Gene Overview

The RTCA-AS1 gene (RNA terminal phosphate cyclase 1 - antisense 1) is a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) that has been identified in various studies related to gene regulation and cellular processes. It is notably associated with the RTCA gene, which is involved in the maturation of transfer RNA (tRNA) and has implications in several physiological and pathological contexts.

### 1. Associated Genes

While the NCBI and UniProt summaries may list key genes directly connected with RTCA-AS1, other genes that RTCA-AS1 might be associated with, due to its regulatory roles, include:
- **RTCA**: The gene directly encoded by the RTCA-AS1 locus.
- **EIF4A3**: Involved in the regulation of translation and may have interactions regarding lncRNA.
- **Tumor Suppressor and Oncogenes**: It may indirectly interact with various tumor suppressors and oncogenes as it plays roles in gene regulation.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases

Research into long non-coding RNAs, including RTCA-AS1, suggests a potential role in aging and associated conditions. Specific known associations include:
- **Cellular Senescence**: Changes in lncRNA expression profiles can influence cellular senescence, a critical driver of aging.
- **Cancer**: Given RTCA-AS1's involvement in gene regulation, dysregulation could contribute to oncogenesis; thus, it may have implications in age-related cancer susceptibility.
- **Neurodegenerative Diseases**: Non-coding RNAs are increasingly studied in conditions like Alzheimer's disease, though specific associations with RTCA-AS1 may require further investigation.

### 3. Drug Interactions

Currently, there are no specific drugs or drug classes directly known to interact with RTCA-AS1. However, general therapeutic approaches targeting lncRNAs are emerging, which may indirectly implicate RTCA-AS1 in future therapeutic strategies:
- **Antisense Oligonucleotides**: Could be developed to modulate the expression of RTCA-AS1.
- **Small Molecules**: Investigated in context of non-coding RNA regulation.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

RTCA-AS1 is involved in several biological processes and pathways, although detailed pathways specifically involving RTCA-AS1 might not be extensively mapped out yet. Generally, lncRNAs like RTCA-AS1 can influence:
- **RNA Processing**: It may play a role in the maturation and modification of tRNA.
- **Gene Expression Regulation**: RTCA-AS1 could influence chromatin modification and transcription through interaction with various transcription factors.
- **Cell Cycle Regulation**: Potential roles in cell cycle dynamics due to its regulatory functions.

In summary, while knowledge surrounding RTCA-AS1 is still developing, its designation as a lncRNA implies active participation in various cellular functions, particularly in tRNA biosynthesis and regulation of gene expression. Future research may elucidate its roles in aging, disease, and potential applications in therapeutics.