### AK8 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: AK8  
**Function**: AK8 is a member of the nucleoside monophosphate kinase family. It is known for its ability to bind AMP and phosphorylate various nucleobase-containing compounds, displaying specific activity towards AMP and weaker activities towards other nucleoside monophosphates and diphosphates. 

### 1. Associated Genes
AK8 has associations with several other genes in various biological pathways, including:

- **AK1 (Adenylate Kinase 1)**: Another enzyme involved in nucleotide metabolism.
- **AK2 (Adenylate Kinase 2)**: Similar function in catalyzing nucleotide phosphate transfers.
- **NME1 (NME/NM23 nucleoside diphosphate kinase 1)**: Involved in nucleotide metabolism and cellular energy homeostasis.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
Research highlighting the connection of AK8 to aging is limited, but its enzymatic roles in nucleotide metabolism and its potential involvement in cellular energy regulation may suggest implications in:

- **Cellular Aging**: As a player in energy homeostasis, AK8 activity could impact cellular stress responses and longevity.
- **Age-related disorders**: Changes in nucleotide metabolism have been associated with various conditions, including cardiovascular diseases and neurodegeneration, although specific studies linking AK8 to these processes may still be emerging.

### 3. Drug Interaction
Direct specific interactions between drugs and the AK8 gene have not been extensively characterized. However, as a kinase involved in nucleotide metabolism, drugs targeting related metabolic pathways might indirectly influence AK8 activity. Classes of drugs that potentially interact with pathways AK8 participates in include:

- **Nucleotide analogs**: Used in cancer chemotherapy.
- **Metabolic modulators**: Such as those affecting AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathways, since AK8’s function is tightly related to cellular energy status.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
AK8 is involved in several significant biological processes, including:

- **Nucleotide Metabolism**: Facilitates the synthesis and degradation of nucleotides, which are vital for DNA/RNA synthesis and signaling.
- **Phosphorylation Processes**: Plays roles in cellular energy dynamics by participating in the phosphorylation of nucleoside diphosphates and triphosphates.
- **Ciliary Functions**: Located in motile cilia (9+2 structure), suggesting involvement in signaling cascades crucial for cell motility and communication.

### Summary
The AK8 gene is an essential component of cellular metabolism, particularly involved in the regulation of nucleotide pools and energy homeostasis. While its direct connection to aging and age-related diseases may require further investigation, the implications of its enzymatic activity across a range of biological functions underscore its potential significance in health and disease. Further studies may elucidate its exact roles and therapeutic targets linked with various health conditions.