### NPHP4 Gene Overview

The NPHP4 gene, also known as Nephronophthisis 4, encodes a protein critical for renal tubular development and function. It is implicated in several diseases, particularly those affecting the kidneys and the retina.

### 1. Associated Genes
In addition to the genes mentioned in the provided summaries (such as NPHP1, NPHP2, NPHP3, and NPHP8), NPHP4 is also associated with the following genes:
- **INVS** (Inversin): Required for proper kidney function and associated with a related ciliopathy.
- **JADE1**: Known to interact with NPHP4 and function in the regulation of Wnt signaling.
- **LATS1** (Large Tumor Suppressor 1): Associated with the Hippo signaling pathway, which is influenced by NPHP4.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
While there is limited direct research on the NPHP4 gene's association with aging, its role in kidney and retinal function may contribute to age-related decline in these systems. Nephronophthisis, the primary condition associated with NPHP4 mutations, typically manifests in childhood or adolescence but may have long-term consequences into adulthood, potentially influencing renal aging and susceptibility to diseases such as chronic kidney disease (CKD) later in life. Furthermore, disruptions in Wnt signaling pathways have been linked to various age-related conditions, including cancer and degenerative diseases. 

### 3. Known Drug Interactions
As of the current knowledge base, there are no specific drugs or drug classes directly interacting with the NPHP4 gene reported. However, agents that target the Wnt signaling pathway, given NPHP4's role in modulating this pathway, might influence its activity indirectly. Research involving potential pharmacological agents may focus on the pathways NPHP4 affects (e.g., canonical Wnt signaling), particularly in the context of nephronophthisis and other related diseases.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
The NPHP4 gene is involved in several important biological pathways and processes, including:
- **Ciliogenesis**: Important for the formation of cilia, especially in renal and epithelial tissues.
- **Actin Cytoskeleton Organization**: The protein interacts with actin to maintain cellular structures.
- **Regulation of Wnt Signaling Pathways**: By interacting with proteins such as disheveled and influencing the location and stability of these proteins, NPHP4 contributes to the regulation of Wnt signaling, specifically affecting the balance between canonical and non-canonical (Wnt-PCP) pathways.
- **Apical Junction Organization**: Assists in organizing cell-to-cell junctions essential for maintaining tissue integrity in epithelial cells.
- **Negative Regulation of the Hippo Pathway**: Through its interactions with LATS1, NPHP4 can influence cellular proliferation and apoptosis.

This multifaceted role underscores the importance of NPHP4 in both kidney function and broader cellular processes, explaining its implication in various diseases.