### RNU6-996P Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** RNU6-996P

RNU6-996P is a pseudogene known to be associated with the U6 small nuclear RNA (snRNA) family, which plays a crucial role in spliceosomal RNA processing. This gene is mainly considered non-coding and, like other U6 snRNA genes, theoretically participates in the splicing of pre-mRNA by forming part of the spliceosome complex.

#### 1. Associated Genes 
While specific associations of RNU6-996P with other genes are not widely documented, it is often studied in the context of other U6 and snRNA-related genes, such as:
- **RNU6-1**: The canonical U6 RNA gene involved in mRNA splicing.
- **RNU4ATAC**: A component of the U4/U6.U5 tri-snRNP complex that is involved in the splicing of pre-mRNA.
- **RNU5A**: Another member of the snRNA family that is involved in pre-mRNA splicing.

Given that RNU6-996P is a pseudogene, its direct associations with functional genes may be limited.

#### 2. Involvement in Aging and Age-Related Diseases
As of the latest data available up to October 2023, there are no extensive studies directly linking RNU6-996P to aging or age-related diseases. However, since U6 snRNAs (the family it is part of) are known to be involved in splicing and gene expression, alterations in the splicing machinery with age could theoretically implicate related pseudogenes like RNU6-996P in age-related splicing disorders or misregulation of genes associated with aging. More research is needed for conclusive evidence.

#### 3. Drug Interactions
Currently, no specific drugs or drug classes have been documented to have known interactions with the RNU6-996P gene. Pseudogenes typically do not have direct pharmacological targets. However, drugs that modulate splicing (like splice-switching oligonucleotides) may indirectly influence the expression or activity of genes associated with U6 snRNA functions.

#### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
RNU6-996P is associated with several fundamental biological processes and pathways:
- **RNA Splicing**: Plays a role in the spliceosome's assembly and the catalysis of pre-mRNA splicing.
- **mRNA Processing**: Involved in the processing of precursor mRNA into mature mRNA.
- **Gene Expression Regulation**: Although a pseudogene, it may have implications in the regulatory networks of gene expression, particularly regarding transcript stability or splicing efficiency.

Overall, while RNU6-996P is less characterized than many protein-coding genes, it is part of an essential family of RNA elements that support gene expression and processing in eukaryotic cells. Further research is necessary to unveil the full potential and implications of this pseudogene in human health and disease.