### TMEM87A Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** TMEM87A  
**Chromosomal Location:** Human Chromosome 12q24.31  

**Function and Protein Summary:**  
TMEM87A encodes a protein that is predominantly localized in the membrane of the Golgi cisternae. Its primary function is implicated in the retrograde transport mechanism from endosomes to the trans-Golgi network (TGN), which is crucial for the proper trafficking and processing of various proteins within the cell. This role in intracellular transport suggests its involvement in maintaining cellular homeostasis and functionality.

In addition to its transport-related functions, TMEM87A has been involved in mechanotransduction pathways affecting cellular adhesion and migration. Although some studies suggest TMEM87A may act as a mechanically activated ion channel or an accessory protein, other studies have found no evidence of ion channel activity, proposing instead that TMEM87A might serve as a trafficking chaperone for proteins associated with the membrane.

### 1. Associated Genes:
While specific studies linking TMEM87A to other genes may not be well-documented, genes that are related to intracellular transport and Golgi apparatus function may have associations based on functional networks. Notably, genes involved in:
- Endosomal trafficking (e.g., RAB proteins)
- Protein processing in the Golgi (e.g., COPI, COPII component genes)
- Mechanotransduction pathways (e.g., ADCYAP1)

Further, in studies focusing on human diseases or traits influenced by transport mechanisms, genes like **WLS (Wntless)** may exhibit functional similarities due to TMEM87A's structural and functional implications.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases:
Currently, there's limited direct research highlighting TMEM87A's specific involvement in aging or age-related diseases. However, general alterations in Golgi function and endosomal transport mechanisms are observed in various age-related conditions, such as neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer's disease) and certain types of cancer. Given TMEM87A's role in these pathways, it may indirectly influence aging processes and related pathologies.

### 3. Known Drug Interactions:
As of the latest available data, no specific drugs or drug classes have been definitively linked to TMEM87A. However, since the gene is implicated in transport and cellular processes, drug interactions may include those affecting Golgi function or transport pathways more broadly, such as:
- **Golgistatin:** An inhibitor of Golgi function.
- **Vesicular trafficking inhibitors:** General classes of drugs that impact vesicle transport.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes:
TMEM87A is involved in several key biological processes, including but not limited to:
- **Endosome to Golgi transport:** Essential for recycling and processing of membrane proteins.
- **Cell adhesion:** Linked to mechanotransduction pathways, influencing how cells interact and adhere to their environment.
- **Regulation of intracellular trafficking:** By modulating chaperone-like functions, TMEM87A might impact the transport and localization of membrane proteins and lipids.
- **Involvement in Golgi function:** Essential for the maintenance of Golgi structure and function.
  
**Pathways:** Potential pathways that TMEM87A could be engaged in include:
- Retrograde transport pathways
- Cellular signaling pathways linked to mechanotransduction
- Protein sorting and trafficking mechanisms in the endomembrane system.  

In summary, while there is a solid understanding of the TMEM87A gene's function in transport and mechanotransduction, ongoing research may further clarify its roles, particularly in the context of aging and disease.