### ITGB8 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** ITGB8  
**Location:** The ITGB8 gene is located on chromosome 2q34 and encodes the beta-8 integrin subunit, which is crucial in forming integrin complexes with various alpha subunits, particularly alpha-V (ITGAV).

#### Key Characteristics
- **Protein Structure:** ITGB8 is a single-pass type I membrane protein featuring a von Willebrand factor A (VWFA) domain and four cysteine-rich repeats. 
- **Function:** ITGB8 primarily forms a heterodimer with the alpha-V subunit, creating the integrin alpha-V:beta-8 (ITGAV:ITGB8) complex, which serves as a receptor for fibronectin, binding to the RGD (Arg-Gly-Asp) motif in ligands. It plays a significant role in cell adhesion, migration, and extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions. 

### 1. Associated Genes
While the summaries provided focus on the main integrin complex partners like ITGAV and ITGB6, the ITGB8 gene is also involved in functional interactions with the following genes:
- **TGFBR1 and TGFBR2:** These genes encode components of the TGF-beta receptor complex. The ITGB8-integrin participates in TGF-beta activation and signaling, impacting various biological processes including cellular proliferation and differentiation.
- **FN1 (Fibronectin 1):** As the main ligand for integrin complexes involving ITGB8, it is essential for ECM remodeling.
- **CD44:** This gene, which encodes a cell surface glycoprotein involved in cell-cell interactions, can interact functionally with integrins affecting cell migration and adhesion.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
- **Aging Context:** Although direct studies linking ITGB8 to aging are limited, its role in integrin-mediated signaling pathways implicates it in processes such as cell senescence and tissue repair, both of which are essential in the context of aging.
- **Disease Associations:** Altered expression or dysfunctions in integrin signaling, including ITGB8, have been implicated in various age-related conditions such as:
  - **Cancer:** Integrin dysregulation, including that of ITGB8, can affect tumor proliferation and metastasis.
  - **Fibrosis:** ITGB8 has been associated with pathological fibrotic processes, which are often aggravated in aged tissues.
  - **Cardiovascular Diseases:** Impairments in vasculogenesis related to integrins can play a role in age-associated vascular diseases.

### 3. Drug Interactions
While specific drugs targeting ITGB8 are still under investigation, integrins, in general, are important therapeutic targets in oncology and inflammation:
- **Integrin Inhibitors:** These can include monoclonal antibodies or small molecules that block integrins. Specific drugs include:
  - **Natalizumab (Tysabri):** A monoclonal antibody against integrins affecting immune cell trafficking.
  - **Abs to ITGAV-ITGB8 heterodimer** could be strategies pursued in research settings for fibrotic diseases or tumors.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
ITGB8 is involved in several critical biological pathways and processes, including:
- **Cell Adhesion:** Facilitating connections between cells and the extracellular matrix.
- **Vasculogenesis:** Important during embryonic development and the formation of new blood vessels.
- **TGF-beta Signaling Pathway:** Integrating signals from the environment which influence cell growth, differentiation, and extracellular matrix production.
- **Wound Healing and Tissue Repair:** By mediating ECM interactions, ITGB8 aids in healing and tissue regeneration processes.
- **Immune Response:** Participation in the activation and regulation of T-cells, especially the integration with TGF-beta signaling for regulatory T-cell function.

In summary, ITGB8 is a significant player in cell-matrix interactions, signaling pathways, and may have important implications in aging and disease processes, particularly through its association with various ligands and receptors. Further research is ongoing to fully elucidate its roles and potential as a therapeutic target.