### IL36A Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: IL36A  
**Chromosomal Location**: Human gene IL36A is located on chromosome 2q14.1.

### Function and Disease Association
IL36A encodes a cytokine that plays a crucial role in mediating inflammatory responses, particularly in skin-related conditions. It signals through the IL1RL2/IL-36R receptor complex, activating NF-kappa-B and MAPK signaling pathways, which are critical for pro-inflammatory responses. IL36A is notably expressed in the epidermis and has been shown to have increased expression in psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition.

### Additional Associated Genes
While the summaries provided do not name additional genes, IL36A is part of a broader cytokine signaling network that likely interacts with several other genes and their products. Some associated genes may include:
- **IL36B and IL36G**: Related cytokines in the IL-36 family.
- **IL1RL2**: The receptor for IL36A, which mediates its signaling effects.
- **IL1RAP**: The co-receptor that works alongside IL1RL2 in the IL-36 signaling pathway.

### Aging and Age-Related Disease Associations
The expression of IL36A and its role in inflammation may implicate it in age-related pathology. Chronic inflammation is a hallmark of aging (often termed inflammaging), and dysregulation of cytokine production can contribute to age-related diseases such as:
- **Hepatocellular carcinoma and Colorectal Cancer**: Evidence suggests that decreased expression of IL36A correlates with poorer prognosis in these cancers, indicating its potential role in tumor microenvironments and immune response.
- **Psoriasis and Other Inflammatory Skin Conditions**: Age can influence the severity of conditions like psoriasis, implying that IL36A might have relevance in the age-related exacerbation of skin inflammatory diseases.

### Drug Interactions
Currently, specific drug interactions with IL36A are not widely documented; however, drugs targeting inflammatory pathways may indirectly influence IL36A function. Potential classes of pharmacological agents that could interact include:
- **Biologics targeting IL-1 and IL-36 pathways**: Drugs that inhibit IL-36 receptors or downstream signaling components could be under development or in trials.
- **NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)**: These may modulate the general inflammatory response, potentially affecting IL36A's activity.

### Pathways and Biological Processes
IL36A is involved in several key biological pathways and processes:
- **Inflammatory Response**: Central to the induction of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines.
- **Keratinocyte Activity**: Influences skin cell behavior, affecting proliferation, maturation, and inflammatory responses in epithelial tissues.
- **Dendritic Cell Maturation**: Auxiliary role in the activation and maturation of dendritic cells, critical for immune responses.
- **Cytokine Signaling Pathways**: Part of the broader IL-1 family signaling which plays roles in various immune responses and inflammatory conditions.

In summary, IL36A is a pivotal cytokine implicated in skin inflammation and broader immune responses, with potential associations in aging-related diseases and relevance in future therapeutic targeting approaches. Further research could illuminate additional pathways and interactions that relate IL36A to various physiological and pathological states.