### NKIRAS1 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** NKIRAS1

**Function:** NKIRAS1 encodes an atypical Ras-like protein that is predominantly involved in regulating NF-kappa-B activity. It acts as an inhibitor of the NF-kappa-B inhibitor beta (NFKBIB), preventing its phosphorylation and subsequent degradation, thus contributing to the persistence of NF-kappa-B signaling. NKIRAS1 is proposed to function both in a GTP-bound and GDP-bound state.

### 1. Associated Genes

While the provided summaries mention NFKBIB (IκB-α) and the RELA subunit of NF-kappa-B, NKIRAS1 also interacts with other genes involved in inflammation, signaling pathways, and cellular stress responses. Examples of associated genes may include:

- **IKBKB (I-kappa-B kinase beta):** Involved in NF-kappa-B signaling pathway.
- **NFKB2 (Nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B cells 2):** Related to the generation of the NF-kappa-B family of transcription factors.
- **RALA (Ras-related protein Ral-A):** Important for various intracellular signaling pathways.

### 2. Aging and Age-related Diseases

Research has indicated that the dysregulation of NF-kappa-B signaling can be associated with aging and various age-related diseases such as:

- **Aging:** NF-kappa-B is known to play a role in the aging process, with chronic inflammation being a hallmark of inflammaging, the age-related increase in inflammatory markers.
- **Neurodegenerative Diseases:** Enhanced NF-kappa-B activity is linked to conditions like Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative disorders.
- **Cancer:** Chronic activation of NF-kappa-B signaling has been implicated in tumorigenesis and cancer progression.

Although direct studies specifically focusing on NKIRAS1 and aging are limited, its pivotal role in NF-kappa-B regulation suggests its potential involvement in these processes.

### 3. Drug Interactions

Currently, there are limited specific drugs directly targeting NKIRAS1; however, drugs that influence NF-kappa-B signaling may indirectly affect the function of NKIRAS1. Classes of drugs that modify NF-kappa-B activity include:

- **Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs):** Such as ibuprofen and aspirin which alter inflammatory response pathways.
- **Immunosuppressants:** Like corticosteroids that can modulate NF-kappa-B activation.
  
More specific inhibitors targeting NF-kappa-B signaling or research compounds that can impact pathways influenced by NKIRAS1 might be emerging in drug discovery.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

NKIRAS1 is involved in several signaling pathways and biological processes, such as:

- **NF-kappa-B signaling pathway:** Primarily acts to prevent the degradation of NFKBIB, thereby modulating NF-kappa-B activity.
- **Ral protein signal transduction:** An important pathway for cellular signal transduction.
- **Inflammatory responses:** Plays a role in regulating inflammation.
- **Lung alveolus development and surfactant homeostasis:** Implicated in processes vital for lung function.

### Conclusion

NKIRAS1 is a vital gene for understanding NF-kappa-B regulation and its broader implications in inflammation, aging, and related pathologies. Further research is necessary to explore its direct modulatory roles and associations with therapeutic interventions.