### WDHD1 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** WDHD1  
**Location:** Chromosome 17

The **WDHD1** gene encodes a protein that contains multiple N-terminal WD40 domains, which are known for their role in protein-protein interactions, and a C-terminal high mobility group (HMG) box, involved in DNA binding. This protein plays a crucial role in the DNA replication process, acting as a component of the core replisome and serving as a recruitment hub for other proteins involved in DNA replication.

### 1. Associated Genes

WDHD1 has functional relationships with several other genes that are critical for the DNA replication process, including:

- **MCM complex genes (e.g., MCM2, MCM3, MCM4, MCM5):** Part of the minichromosome maintenance (MCM) complex essential for DNA replication initiation.
- **CMG complex components (CDC45, GINS complex):** The CMG complex (Cdc45-MCM-GINS) is pivotal for helicase activity during replication.
- **TOPBP1:** Involved in DNA damage response and replication checkpoint activation.
   
These associations highlight WDHD1's role in coordinating various components necessary for effective DNA replication.

### 2. Aging or Age-Related Diseases

There is evidence suggesting that **WDHD1** may be involved in age-related cellular processes and diseases. Changes in DNA replication efficiency can lead to genomic instability, a hallmark of aging and age-related diseases, including cancer:

- **Aging:** Modifications in the WDHD1 function related to the replication machinery may be implicated in the gradual decline of cellular functions associated with aging.
- **Cancer:** Aberrant expression of WDHD1 has been linked to various malignancies, suggesting that alterations in DNA replication and repair processes may contribute to tumorigenesis.

Despite these implications, specific age-related studies exclusively focusing on WDHD1 are limited, and further research is needed to delineate its role in these contexts.

### 3. Drug Interactions

As of the latest data through October 2023, there are no specific drugs or drug classes directly known to interact with WDHD1. However, because WDHD1 is involved in the DNA replication process, it may be indirectly affected by anticancer drugs that target DNA synthesis and repair mechanisms. Further investigation into drug-target interactions may reveal new therapeutic avenues whereby modulation of WDHD1 activity could enhance treatment efficacy in cancers or other diseases.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

WDHD1 is involved in several key biological pathways and processes:

- **DNA Replication:** Essential for the initiation and elongation phases of DNA synthesis.
- **Cell Cycle Regulation:** Influences the proper sequencing of cell cycle events by coordinating DNA repair and replication.
- **DNA Damage Response:** While primarily a replication factor, WDHD1 may also be functionally linked to pathways involved in the cellular response to DNA damage.
- **Pre-mRNA Processing:** The presence of WD40 domains suggests involvement in the regulation of pre-mRNA processing via protein-protein interactions.

Overall, the WDHD1 gene plays a significant role in orchestrating multiple aspects of DNA replication and may have broader implications in genomic stability, aging, and cancer biology. Continuous research is essential to uncover all the nuances of its functions and relationships.