### DCAF6 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: DCAF6

**Function**: The DCAF6 gene encodes a protein that acts as a ligand-dependent coactivator for several nuclear receptors, particularly NR3C1 (glucocorticoid receptor) and androgen receptor (AR). This protein is involved in regulating the transcriptional activity of these receptors, thereby influencing a variety of biological processes including hormone response, cell survival, and possibly tumor progression. DCAF6 is thought to interact with the CUL4-DDB1 E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase complex, serving as a substrate receptor which implicates it in protein ubiquitination and degradation processes.

### 1. Associated Genes
In addition to NR3C1 and AR, DCAF6 has been associated with the following genes:
- **DDB2** (DNA damage binding protein 2): Highlighted in interaction with DCAF6 concerning tumor promotion and suppression.
- **CUL4A** and **CUL4B**: Components of the CUL4-RING E3 ubiquitin ligase complex.
- **RBX1**: A part of the E3 ubiquitin ligase complex that may interact with DCAF6.
- **TP53**: In certain contexts, DCAF6 may influence pathways relating to p53 mediated responses.

### 2. Aging and Age-related Diseases
While specific studies directly linking DCAF6 to aging or age-related diseases are limited, its involvement in the regulation of androgen receptors and glucocorticoid receptors suggests potential relevance in:
- **Prostate Cancer**: Since DCAF6 can promote AR activity in prostate tissues, aberrant activation or expression of DCAF6 could be implicated in disease progression associated with aging.
- **Hormonal Changes**: The role of DCAF6 in modulating responses to steroid hormones (androgens and glucocorticoids), which often fluctuate with age, suggests it may influence age-related pathologies such as metabolic syndromes or certain cancers.
- **DNA Repair Pathways**: Given its association with DDB2, DCAF6 might play a role in cellular responses to DNA damage, which could impact aging and longevity.

### 3. Drug Interactions
Some classes of drugs and interactions that may modulate DCAF6 function include:
- **Glucocorticoids**: As DCAF6 is a coactivator for glucocorticoid receptor, drugs in this class can impact its activity.
- **Androgen Receptor Antagonists**: Such as bicalutamide or enzalutamide, which are used in treating prostate cancer and might alter DCAF6 function indirectly through the inhibition of its primary receptor.
- **Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors (HDACi)**: While not directly targeting DCAF6, some HDAC inhibitors may affect its expression via epigenetic regulation.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
DCAF6 is involved in several biological pathways and processes:
- **Nuclear Receptor Signaling Pathway**: Enhances the transcriptional response to steroid hormones.
- **Cell Cycle Regulation**: Potential involvement through the regulation of AR and interaction with the E3 ligase complex.
- **DNA Repair Mechanisms**: Its association with DDB2 suggests a role in responding to DNA damage and regulating DNA repair processes.
- **Ubiquitin-Proteasome Pathway**: Participation in protein ubiquitination for degradation, particularly relevant in controlling the levels of nuclear receptors in cells.

### Summary
DCAF6 is a versatile player in nuclear receptor signaling, particularly for androgen and glucocorticoid receptors and has implications in cancer biology and potentially other cellular processes related to age and disease. Its regulatory effects on diverse pathways highlight its biological significance and potential as a therapeutic target in hormone-related diseases.