### SSTR3 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** SSTR3  
**Gene Description:** The SSTR3 gene encodes a member of the somatostatin receptor family, specifically the somatostatin receptor 3. These receptors are crucial for mediating the effects of somatostatin, a neuropeptide that has powerful inhibitory effects on hormone secretion and neurotransmitter release, and plays a role in a variety of cellular processes such as cell proliferation and metabolic regulation.

### 1. Associated Genes

The SSTR3 gene may interact with or be associated with other genes such as:

- **SSTR1** - Somatostatin receptor 1
- **SSTR2** - Somatostatin receptor 2
- **SSTR4** - Somatostatin receptor 4
- **SSTR5** - Somatostatin receptor 5
- **GPA1** - G protein alpha subunit (coupling of receptors)
- **ADCY1** - Adenylyl cyclase 1 (associated with the signaling pathway)
- **PTX3** – A gene involved in the pathway for pertussis toxin signaling

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases

Somatostatin receptors, including SSTR3, are implicated in various age-related processes and diseases:

- **Neurodegeneration:** Changes in somatostatin signaling have been observed in Alzheimer's disease, with alterations in receptor expression potentially influencing neurodegenerative pathways.
- **Cancer:** Dysregulation of somatostatin receptors has been linked to several types of cancer, and SSTR3 specifically may affect tumor growth and metastasis.
- **Age-related hormonal changes:** As individuals age, there can be a decline in somatostatin, which suggests that SSTR3 may play a role in regulating hormonal balances that can become disrupted during aging.

### 3. Drug Interactions

Several drugs interact with somatostatin receptors, including SSTR3:

- **Octreotide and Lanreotide:** Synthetic somatostatin analogs used to treat acromegaly and other conditions. They mimic the action of somatostatin and activate the SSTRs, including SSTR3, to inhibit hormone release.
- **Pasireotide:** Another somatostatin analog, particularly applied in Cushing's disease and neuroendocrine tumors.
- **Dopamine Agonists (e.g., Bromocriptine):** These may indirectly influence somatostatin signaling.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

The SSTR3 gene is involved in several key biological pathways and processes, including:

- **G-Protein Coupled Receptor (GPCR) signaling:** SSTR3 is a member of the GPCR family and is coupled to G proteins (specifically pertussis toxin-sensitive G proteins), leading to downstream signaling cascades.
- **Inhibition of Adenylyl Cyclase:** Upon activation by somatostatin, SSTR3 decreases cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels through inhibition of adenylyl cyclase, thus affecting various signaling pathways.
- **Neurotransmission:** By modulating neurotransmitter release, SSTR3 plays a significant role in neuronal signaling and can impact mood, cognition, and other neural processes.
- **Regulation of Hormone Secretion:** SSTR3 is involved in the feedback regulation of hormones in both the endocrine and neuroendocrine systems, contributing to overall homeostasis.

These aspects underline the SSTR3 gene's importance in both physiological processes and its potential implications in various diseases, particularly in endocrine and neurodegenerative contexts.