### ITGA3 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** ITGA3  
**Location:** Chromosome 17 (17q23.2).  
**Function:** The ITGA3 gene encodes the integrin alpha-3 subunit, which partners with the beta-1 subunit to form a heterodimeric integrin that acts as a cell surface adhesion receptor. 

### 1. Associated Genes

ITGA3 has been associated with several other genes, particularly through signaling pathways and cellular processes, including:

- **ITGB1 (Integrin beta-1):** Forms a heterodimer with ITGA3 to create the integrin alpha-3/beta-1 complex.
- **LGALS3 (Galectin-3):** Involved in interactions with the integrin alpha-3/beta-1 complex to promote endothelial cell migration.
- **CSPG4 (Chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan 4):** Promotes cell migration through interaction with integrin alpha-3/beta-1.
- **FAP (Fibroblast activation protein):** Interacts with the integrin complex at invadopodia.
- **MMPs (Matrix Metalloproteinases):** While not directly associated with the gene, integrins, including ITGA3, are often involved in remodeling processes influenced by MMPs.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases

While a direct association between ITGA3 and aging is not extensively characterized, its involvement in cell adhesion and migration suggests potential implications in:

- **Tumorigenesis and Metastasis:** Variations in integrin expression, including ITGA3, have been linked to increased risk of metastasis in various cancers, particularly breast cancer. Cancer prevalence increases with age, suggesting a correlative relationship.
- **Wound Healing and Fibrosis:** Integrins play a crucial role in wound healing processes, which can become less efficient with aging. Changes in ITGA3 expression might affect these processes.
- **Cardiovascular Diseases:** ITGA3 may influence endothelial function and vascular remodeling, both of which are central to cardiovascular diseases that increase with age.

### 3. Known Drug Interactions

While specific drugs directed against ITGA3 are not well-documented, integrin inhibitors and other therapeutics targeting cell adhesion and migration might exert effects on pathways involving ITGA3. Drug classes that could interact include:

- **Integrin inhibitors:** Such as small molecule drugs or antibodies targeting integrin interactions.
- **Antineoplastic agents:** Given ITGA3's association with cancer invasion and metastasis.
- **Anti-inflammatory drugs:** Since integrins can modulate inflammatory processes, which are often dysregulated in age-related diseases.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

ITGA3 is involved in several critical biological pathways, including but not limited to:

- **Cell Adhesion and Migration:** Key processes required for tissue development, wound healing, and immune responses.
- **ECM-Receptor Interaction:** Involves binding to extracellular matrix components, which is requisite for structural and functional integrity of tissues.
- **Cytoskeletal Organization:** Integrins play a vital role in linking the ECM to the cytoskeleton, influencing cellular morphology and motility.
- **Signal Transduction:** Integrins activate signaling pathways that regulate various cellular functions, including proliferation, migration, and differentiation.
- **Angiogenesis:** Its role in endothelial cell migration suggests a participation in new vessel formation.

In summary, the ITGA3 gene is a pivotal component of the integrin family, with broad implications in cell adhesion, migration, cancer metastasis, and possibly aging-relevant processes. Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities related to ITGA3.