### VEGFC Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** VEGFC (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor C)

**Protein Function:** The VEGFC gene encodes a member of the platelet-derived growth factor/vascular endothelial growth factor (PDGF/VEGF) family, mainly involved in promoting angiogenesis and endothelial cell growth. The protein initially exists as a proprotein, which, upon proteolytic cleavage, forms a mature protein that can bind to and activate the receptors VEGFR-2 (KDR) and VEGFR-3 (FLT4). It specializes in vascular development across both the venous and lymphatic systems during embryogenesis and is involved in the maintenance of differentiated lymphatic endothelium in adults.

### 1. Associated Genes

The VEGFC gene is associated with several other genes, including but not limited to:
- **VEGFA:** Another member of the VEGF family that primarily mediates angiogenesis.
- **VEGFB:** Plays roles similar to VEGFA but is less involved in lymphangiogenesis.
- **VEGFR2 (KDR):** Major receptor for VEGF constituents, mediating pathways important for angiogenesis.
- **VEGFR3 (FLT4):** Specifically involved in lymphangiogenesis and development of the lymphatic system.
- **FLT1 (VEGFR1):** A decoy receptor that modulates the activity of VEGF ligands.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases

VEGFC has been implicated in various age-related conditions, particularly those involving vascular integrity and function. Key details include:
- **Aging Effects on Vascular Function:** As humans age, the expression of VEGFC and its receptors can change, potentially leading to impaired angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis, which may contribute to age-related diseases such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, and chronic inflammation.
- **Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD):** Increased levels and activity of angiogenic factors, including VEGFC, have been implicated in the pathogenesis of AMD, a leading cause of vision loss in the elderly.
- **Cancer:** Cancer-associated changes in the VEGFC expression can promote tumorigenesis, metastasis, and the development of a leaky microvasculature in aging tissues.

### 3. Drugs and Drug Classes Interacting with VEGFC

Several drugs, particularly those targeting angiogenic pathways and vascular function, interact with VEGFC directly or indirectly:
- **Anti-VEGF Therapies:** These include monoclonal antibodies (e.g. Bevacizumab) or small molecules that inhibit the signaling of the VEGF family but may also affect VEGFC functionality.
- **Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs):** Several TKIs target VEGFRs. Examples include:
  - **Sunitinib**
  - **Sorafenib**
  - **Axitinib**
  
These agents are commonly used in the treatment of various cancers and can modulate the activity of VEGFC receptors by affecting the receptor pathways.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

The VEGFC gene is involved in several critical biological pathways and processes, including:
- **VEGF Signaling Pathway:** It plays a central role in the signaling pathways associated with blood vessel growth (angiogenesis) and lymphatic vessel growth (lymphangiogenesis).
- **Cell Proliferation and Migration:** VEGFC stimulates the proliferation and migration of endothelial cells, integral for new blood vessel formation.
- **Lymphangiogenesis:** Essential in developing lymphatic vessels, facilitating fluid balance, and immune responses.
- **Embryonic Development:** Involved in embryonic vasculature development affects both venous and lymphatic systems.

In summary, the VEGFC gene has a pivotal role in vascular biology, influencing both physiological processes and pathological states, notably in the context of aging and disease. Understanding its interactions with other genes and drugs can have therapeutic implications in managing age-related vascular issues and cancer.