### DHX36 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: DHX36

**Function**: The DHX36 gene encodes a multifunctional ATP-dependent helicase that unwinds G-quadruplex (G4) structures in RNA and DNA. It plays key roles in post-transcriptional regulation, gene expression, and the integrity of the genome. The protein has various regulatory functions linked to mRNA decay, transcriptional activation, and antiviral responses.

### Associated Genes
While specific associations may vary by research focus, DHX36 interacts with or is reported to impact the following genes:

- **TP53**: Involved in mRNA processing related to UV-induced DNA damage.
- **PITX1**: Its expression is negatively regulated by DHX36; involved in developmental processes.
- **NKX2-5**: DHX36 reportedly regulates this gene's expression regarding translation and decay through RNA structural considerations.
- **YY1, KIT/c-kit, ALPL**: DHX36 positively regulates these genes through the resolution of G4-DNA structures in their promoters.
- **Pre-miR-134**: Interacts with this microRNA for its transport and subsequent functional impact on target genes.

### Aging or Age-Related Diseases
While direct research on the DHX36 gene's specific role in aging or age-related diseases is limited, its involvement in functions like transcriptional regulation, genomic integrity, and stress response suggests possible pathways through which it may influence age-related processes. For example:

- **Genomic Integrity**: With aging, genomic instability increases; thus, DHX36 may play a protective role.
- **Cellular Senescence**: Regulators of gene expression affecting senescence could be indirectly influenced by DHX36 activity.
- **Cancer**: Given its role with genes like TP53, alterations in DHX36 function may contribute to the aging-related risk of cancer development.

### Drug Interactions
As of the latest data, there is no specific drug directly targeting DHX36 known, but several strategies may involve G-quadruplex stabilization or unwinding that could indirectly relate to the functionality of DHX36:

- **G-quadruplex stabilizers**: Compounds that stabilize these structures may influence pathways DHX36 acts upon, thereby having indirect implications in treatments related to cancer or viral infections.

### Involved Pathways and Biological Processes
1. **RNA Metabolism**
   - Regulation of mRNA stability and decay processes.
   - Involvement in the processing of pre-mRNA, affecting splicing and polyadenylation.

2. **Gene Expression Regulation**
   - Transcription regulation of genes involved in development and other physiological processes.

3. **Antiviral Response**
   - Acts as a sensor in the detection and response to viral dsRNA, leading to cytokine production.

4. **Developmental Processes**
   - Facilitates proper development during embryogenesis and organogenesis, particularly related to hematopoiesis and cardioblast differentiation.

5. **Stress Response**
   - Involvement in cellular responses to DNA damage, particularly in repair and transcriptional adjustments.

6. **MicroRNA Biogenesis and Function**
   - Influences the transport and activity of microRNAs, integral for fine-tuning gene expression.

### Summary
The DHX36 gene plays a significant role in regulating cellular processes through its helicase activity, particularly involving G4 structures in RNA and DNA. Its implications in gene expression, mRNA stability, and antiviral response illustrate its importance in cellular homeostasis, and potential roles in age-related gene regulation and diseases warrant further investigation. Research into direct drug interactions continues to be an area to explore due to its multifaceted regulatory roles.