### AXL Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: AXL  
**Location**: Chromosome 19 (19p13.2)  

The AXL gene encodes a receptor tyrosine kinase that is part of the Tyro3-Axl-Mer (TAM) family, which is implicated in various cellular functions. The AXL protein is critical for processes such as cell survival, proliferation, migration, and differentiation by transducing signals from the extracellular matrix via its ligand, growth arrest-specific 6 (Gas6). 

### 1. Associated Genes

The AXL gene is known to interact with several other genes, including:
- **PIK3R1**: Phosphoinositide-3-kinase regulatory subunit 1
- **PIK3R2**: Phosphoinositide-3-kinase regulatory subunit 2
- **PIK3R3**: Phosphoinositide-3-kinase regulatory subunit 3
- **GRB2**: Growth factor receptor-bound protein 2
- **PLCG1**: Phospholipase C gamma 1 
- **LCK**: Lymphocyte-specific protein tyrosine kinase
- **PTPN11**: Protein tyrosine phosphatase, non-receptor type 11
- **CBL**: Casitas B-lineage lymphoma 
- **NCK2**: NCK adaptor protein 2
- **SOCS1**: Suppressor of cytokine signaling 1
- **TNS2**: Tensin 2

In addition, AXL has been linked to other receptors or signaling pathways, such as those involved in survival signaling and immune modulation.

### 2. Aging and Age-related Diseases

Research indicates that AXL may play a role in various aspects of aging and age-related diseases:
- **Neurodegeneration**: AXL is involved in neuronal survival and differentiation, suggesting implications in age-related neurodegenerative disorders (e.g., Alzheimer's disease).
- **Cancer**: AXL expression is often elevated in several types of cancer, and its signaling pathways are implicated in tumor growth, metastasis, and resistance to therapy.
- **Inflammation**: AXL modulates inflammatory responses, which can be particularly relevant in age-related chronic inflammatory conditions.
- **Tissue regeneration**: AXL-mediated signaling is essential for regeneration processes in aging liver and may influence other regenerative capabilities in geriatric syndromes.

### 3. Drug Interactions

AXL has been implicated in various pharmacological pathways, with several drugs and classes known to interact with AXL signaling:
- **AXL inhibitors**: Such as BGB324 and R428, which specifically target AXL to inhibit its activity.
- **mTOR inhibitors**: Drugs like rapamycin have been noted to indirectly affect AXL signaling through pathways linked to cell growth and survival.
- **Immunomodulators**: Certain drugs that modulate immune responses (e.g., checkpoint inhibitors) may interact with AXL signaling, especially in the context of cancer therapy.
- AXL’s involvement with Gas6 (a vitamin K-dependent protein) suggests a potential interface with anticoagulants or Vitamin K antagonists.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

The AXL gene is involved in several important cellular pathways and biological processes:
- **Receptor Tyrosine Kinase (RTK) Signaling**: AXL dimerization and autophosphorylation initiate a cascade of downstream signaling events.
- **PI3K-AKT Pathway**: Activation of AXL promotes the activation of this pathway, which is critical for cell survival and growth.
- **Toll-like Receptor Signaling**: AXL negatively regulates TLR-mediated responses, impacting innate immunity.
- **Endothelial Cell Function**: Plays a significant role in maintaining endothelial cell survival and function during stress conditions.
- **Processes in Hemostasis**: AXL influences platelet activation and thrombotic responses, linking it to vascular health.

In summary, AXL is a multifunctional gene linked to various physiological processes, signaling pathways, interactions with multiple other genes, and relevance in aging and disease, particularly cancer and immune-related conditions.