### ITGAV Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** ITGAV  
**Location:** Chromosome 12 (12q12)

The ITGAV gene encodes the integrin alpha V (αV) subunit, which is part of a family of proteins called integrins. Integrins are critical for cell adhesion, communication, and signaling, facilitating interactions between cells and the extracellular matrix.

### 1. Associated Genes:

ITGAV is known to associate with multiple genes, particularly its partner genes that form heterodimeric receptors. Key associated genes include:
- **ITGB3** (Integrin beta-3): Forms the αVβ3 integrin (vitronectin receptor).
- **ITGB1** (Integrin beta-1): Associated with αV integrins in diverse signaling pathways.
- **ITGB5**, **ITGB6**, and **ITGB8**: Form heterodimers with αV for various ligand interactions.
- **EGFR** (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor): Signaling involvement alongside NRG1.
- **FGFR1 / FGFR2** (Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptors): Associated with signaling pathways for FGFs.
- **INSR** (Insulin Receptor): Potential influence on metabolic pathways.
- **CD40LG** (CD40 Ligand): Associated with immune signaling.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases:

Research indicates that integrins, including ITGAV, play roles in various age-related processes. Some associations include:
- **Cancer Progression:** Dysregulation of ITGAV and its signaling pathways may contribute to tumor metastasis and angiogenesis, both significant in cancer as age progresses.
- **Cardiovascular Diseases:** Altered integrin signaling pathways involving ITGAV are implicated in vascular aging and related cardiovascular pathologies.
- **Tissue Repair and Regeneration:** As tissues age, integrin-mediated signaling may diminish, impacting wound healing and regenerative capabilities.

### 3. Drug Interactions:

**Drugs and Drug Classes:**
- **Integrin Inhibitors:** Drugs such as *vitronectin receptor antagonists* target the ITGAV/ITGB3 heterodimer.
- **Antitumor Agents:** Certain therapies affecting the ITGAV pathway are in investigation for chemotherapeutic efficacy in cancers.
- **Autoimmune Disease Modulators:** Some monoclonal antibodies acting against integrins (like natalizumab) impact ITGAV-related pathways, eliciting immune modulation.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes:

ITGAV is involved in several key biological pathways and processes, including:
- **Cell Adhesion:** Integrin-mediated adhesion to various extracellular matrix components.
- **Cell Migration and Invasion:** Involvement in processes critical for tissue repair, immune responses, and cancer metastasis.
- **Angiogenesis:** Mediating endothelial cell functions and blood vessel formation.
- **Signaling Pathways:** 
  - **TGF-beta signaling:** Through the activation of latent TGF-beta by ITGAV:ITGB6/ITGB8.
  - **Neuregulin signaling:** Involvement in cancer biology and neuronal interactions.
  - **FGF signaling pathways:** For growth factor-mediated effects in development and repair.

In conclusion, the ITGAV gene encodes an essential integrin subunit involved in numerous biological and signaling processes, with significant implications for cancer biology, aging, and tissue maintenance. Further investigation into its interactions and pathways remains crucial for understanding its role in health and disease.