### CEP83 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: CEP83  
**Function**: The CEP83 gene encodes a protein that plays a crucial role in the assembly of primary cilia, specifically as a component of the distal appendage region of centrioles. The protein is thought to facilitate the transport of ciliary membrane proteins to the cilium, thereby participating in the initiation of cilium formation.

### 1. Associated Genes
Although the summaries provided mention IFT20, a known interacting partner, other genes associated with CEP83 include:
- **IFT88** (Intraflagellar Transport 88): Involved in the transport of proteins along cilia.
- **KIF3A** (Kinesin Family Member 3A): A motor protein that contributes to intracellular cargo transport, including ciliary assembly processes.
- **ARL13B** (ADP-ribosylation factor-like 13B): Important for ciliary function and stability.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
While specific studies directly connecting CEP83 to aging are limited, dysfunction in ciliary assembly and maintenance due to mutations or defects in CEP83 has been implicated in:
- **Ciliopathies**: These are conditions that arise from dysfunction in cilia and can include disorders like nephronophthisis, which can progress to renal failure with age.
- **Intellectual disabilities**: Associated with defects in cilia, these cognitive disorders can manifest with age-related cognitive decline.
Given that aberrant cilia function is thought to play a role in aging and age-related diseases, such as metabolic and neurodegenerative disorders, further understanding of CEP83 and its role could shed light on these processes.

### 3. Drug Interactions
Currently, there are no specific drugs or drug classes explicitly associated with the CEP83 gene listed in major databases. However, some drugs targeting ciliary function or relevant pathways may affect the gene indirectly:
- **Cilia-targeting compounds**: Such compounds may influence the assembly or function of cilia in pathways where CEP83 is implicated.
- **Therapeutics for ciliopathies**: These might focus on pathways that involve proteins interacting with or downstream of CEP83.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
The CEP83 gene is involved in several important biological processes and pathways, including:
- **Cilium Assembly**: Specifically the initiation of primary cilia formation.
- **Intraflagellar Transport (IFT)**: Though primarily IFT20 is noted, CEP83 is likely implicated in the transport dynamics required for ciliary integrity.
- **Cell Cycle Regulation**: Given its role in centriole function, CEP83 may also have implications in the cell cycle, especially in relation to cellular division and stability.

### Conclusion
The CEP83 gene is fundamental to the assembly and maintenance of primary cilia, and defects in this gene contribute to significant health issues, including renal diseases and cognitive dysfunctions. Understanding its interactions and roles in cellular processes is crucial, especially within the context of ciliopathies and potential therapeutic interventions. Further research is needed to elucidate its complete biological significance and any associated pharmacological applications.