### SULT1C4 Gene Summary

**Gene Symbol:** SULT1C4  
**Location:** Human chromosome 2q37.3

The SULT1C4 gene encodes an enzyme that is part of the sulfotransferase family (SULTs), which catalyzes the sulfate conjugation of phenolic compounds using 3'-phospho-5'-adenylyl sulfate (PAPS) as a sulfonate donor. This enzyme is particularly notable for its role in sulfonating various substrates, including certain estrogenic compounds and anthracycline-based chemotherapeutic agents, such as doxorubicin.

### 1. Associated Genes
SULT1C4 may have associative relationships with several other genes within the sulfotransferase gene family, including:
- **SULT1A1**: Known for its role in the metabolism of various drugs and xenobiotics.
- **SULT1B1**: Involved in the metabolism of neurotransmitters and hormones.
- **SULT2A1**: Another well-known sulfotransferase with a broad substrate profile.

These genes often have overlapping functions and substrate specificities, contributing to the metabolism of various endogenous and exogenous compounds.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
While specific research on SULT1C4's direct impact on aging or age-related diseases is limited, sulfotransferases in general have been implicated in the metabolism of hormones and xenobiotic substances that can influence aging processes. Abnormal sulfur metabolism may contribute to the pathophysiology of diseases linked to aging, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders. Altered sulfotransferase activity has been associated with:
- Hormonal imbalances, potentially affecting age-related hormonal conditions.
- Cognitive decline linked to the metabolism of neuroactive substances, which may be influenced by changes in SULT expression with age.

### 3. Drug Interactions
SULT1C4 is known to interact with a variety of drugs, particularly:
- **Anthracycline chemotherapy agents**: Including doxorubicin and epirubicin, where SULT1C4 mediates their sulfation, thus affecting their pharmacokinetics and toxicity profiles.
- **Phytoestrogens**: Compounds like flavonoids that are found in plants and can mimic estrogen. SULT1C4 is involved in the metabolism of dietary estrogens and environmental estrogens such as bisphenol A.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
The SULT1C4 gene is involved in several biological pathways, including:
- **Drug Metabolism (Phase II)**: The sulfation reaction catalyzed by SULT1C4 is part of the Phase II detoxification pathway that increases the solubility of drugs and promotes their excretion.
- **Hormone Metabolism**: The enzyme contributes to the metabolic pathway of steroid hormones, impacting their biological activity.
- **Xenobiotic Metabolism**: Plays a critical role in the metabolism and detoxification of a variety of xenobiotic compounds, which can include drugs and pollutants.

These pathways collectively contribute to the regulatory networks managing endogenous compounds and the clearance of exogenous substances, impacting overall health and disease susceptibility.

### Conclusion
SULT1C4 is a significant member of the sulfotransferase gene family, contributing to the metabolism of drugs and various bioactive compounds. Its implications in drug metabolism, hormonal processes, and potential associations with aging-related diseases underscore its importance in pharmacogenetics and toxicology. Further research may elucidate more nuanced roles in health and disease states.