### TUBAP13 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** TUBAP13  
**Gene Name:** Tubulin alpha 13  

The TUBAP13 gene encodes a member of the tubulin family, which are essential proteins that form microtubules, a key component of the cytoskeleton in eukaryotic cells. Microtubules play critical roles in maintaining cell shape, enabling intracellular transport, and facilitating cell division.

### 1. Associated Genes
While the specific summaries from NCBI and UniProt did not mention other associated genes, tubulin genes often show functional and evolutionary relationships with other tubulin family members and cytoskeletal genes. Genes of interest may include:
- **TUBA1A** (Alpha tubulin 1)
- **TUBB** (Beta tubulin)
- **TUBG1** (Gamma tubulin)
These genes are involved in the same biological processes concerning the cytoskeleton and microtubule dynamics.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Disease Link
Research into the role of TUBAP13 specifically in aging or age-related diseases is limited. However, general findings indicate that tubulin dysfunction can be implicated in neurodegenerative diseases, many of which exacerbate with age, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Microtubule stability is crucial in neurons, and alterations in tubulin genes may contribute to cellular aging and the pathogenesis of age-related neurodegenerative disorders.

### 3. Drug Interactions
Direct interactions between specific drugs and TUBAP13 are not widely characterized in databases like DrugBank. However, drugs targeting microtubule dynamics, such as:
- **Taxanes** (e.g., Paclitaxel)
- **Vinca Alkaloids** (e.g., Vincristine and Vinblastine)

could indirectly influence the function of tubulin-related proteins, including those encoded by TUBAP13. Continued research may reveal more specific drug interactions.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
The TUBAP13 gene is involved in several biological processes, primarily linked with microtubule organization and cellular structure. Key pathways that may include TUBAP13 are:

- **Microtubule Polymerization:** It contributes to the assembly and disassembly of microtubules, which is essential for proper cell division and intracellular transport.
- **Cytoskeleton Organization:** TUBAP13 plays a role in maintaining the cytoskeletal architecture, impacting cellular mobility and stability.
- **Cell Cycle Regulation:** Microtubules are integral to mitotic spindle formation during cell division, which TUBAP13 is likely involved in.
- **Neuronal Function and Stability:** Given the link with neurogenesis and synaptic function, tubulin proteins are critical in maintaining neuronal integrity and function.

### Summary
TUBAP13 is a tubulin gene critical for cytoskeletal function, with less direct evidence linking it specifically to aging or drug interactions, contrasting with many well-characterized tubulin genes. Further research may shed light on its roles in age-related pathologies and potential therapeutic avenues.