### IDH3A Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: IDH3A  
**Location**: Homo sapiens (Human)  
**Gene Type**: Protein-coding  

**Function**:  
The IDH3A gene encodes the alpha subunit of the mitochondrial NAD(+)-dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase enzyme. This enzyme plays a crucial role in the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA cycle), catalyzing the oxidative decarboxylation of isocitrate to alpha-ketoglutarate, which is a key metabolic step for energy production and cellular respiration. The enzyme functions as a heterotetramer composed of two IDH3A (alpha subunits), one IDH3B (beta subunit), and one IDH3G (gamma subunit).

### 1. Associated Genes
IDH3A interacts with the following genes:
- **IDH3B**: Encodes the beta subunit of the isocitrate dehydrogenase enzyme. 
- **IDH3G**: Encodes the gamma subunit of the isocitrate dehydrogenase enzyme.
- Other metabolic genes involved in the TCA cycle and related pathways can indirectly relate to IDH3A due to its enzymatic function.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
While specific aging-related research directly associating IDH3A is limited, the TCA cycle is integral to cellular energy metabolism, and disturbances can lead to metabolic dysfunctions often implicated in:
- Neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer's disease).
- Age-related decline in mitochondrial function.
- Metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and other age-associated disorders.

Alterations in the activity of isocitrate dehydrogenase (including all isoforms) can influence reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and energy metabolism in aging cells.

### 3. Drug Interactions
While there are no specific drugs mentioned that directly target the IDH3A gene or its product, several compounds can influence cellular respiration and metabolic pathways associated with the TCA cycle:
- **Metformin**: An anti-diabetic medication that can influence mitochondrial function and the TCA cycle indirectly.
- **Nutraceuticals**: Compounds that support mitochondrial function (e.g., coenzyme Q10, alpha-lipoic acid) can impact the overall metabolic processes linked to isocitrate dehydrogenase activity.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
IDH3A is involved in several key pathways and biological processes:
- **Citric Acid Cycle**: Catalyzes a crucial step in the TCA cycle, contributing to cellular respiration and energy production.
- **NADH Regeneration**: Facilitates the conversion of NAD(+) to NADH, which is essential for oxidative phosphorylation.
- **Metabolic Processes**: Plays a role in amino acid metabolism, particularly in the synthesis of glutamate and other nitrogen-containing compounds.

**Signal Transduction Pathways**:
- Involvement in energy homeostasis.
- Regulation of pathways related to cell growth and survival through energy status signaling (AMPK pathway).

Understanding the role of IDH3A in metabolic processes may provide insights into metabolism-related diseases and age-related pathologies. Ongoing research is important for establishing targeted interventions and potential therapeutic strategies.