### ATP13A4 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** ATP13A4  
**Chromosomal Location:** Located on chromosome 1, specifically at 1p36.11.

### 1. Associated Genes

ATP13A4 may have functional associations with several genes, including but not limited to:

- **ATP13A2:** Known to be involved in the same family of P-type ATPases, implicated in lysosomal function and associated with neurodegenerative conditions like Kufor-Rakeb syndrome.
- **SLC24A3:** A sodium/calcium exchanger involved in calcium homeostasis, may interact in pathways regulating intracellular calcium levels.
- **CACNA1E:** A calcium channel gene that might be functionally related, given the role of ATP13A4 in calcium ion homeostasis.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases

While there is limited direct evidence specifically linking ATP13A4 to aging or age-related diseases, some aspects of its function suggest potential involvement:

- **Calcium Homeostasis:** Dysregulation of calcium levels is a well-known factor in aging and has been associated with various age-related neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Given ATP13A4's role in maintaining cellular calcium ion levels, it may be implicated in these processes.
- **Neurodegeneration:** Weak expression in the adult brain could suggest a less critical role in mature neural tissue but may point to developmental functions during fetal development. Altered expression patterns in aging might influence neuroplasticity and cognitive decline.

### 3. Drug Interactions

As of current knowledge (up to October 2023), specific drugs directly targeting ATP13A4 are not well-documented. However, interactions with certain drug classes may exist:

- **Calcium Channel Blockers:** Given that ATP13A4 is involved in calcium ion homeostasis, drugs that modify calcium signaling may indirectly impact ATP13A4 activity.
- **Neuroprotective Agents:** Since ATP13A4 is expressed in the brain and linked to calcium homeostasis, there may be interest in exploring interactions with neuroprotective drugs used in treating neurodegenerative diseases.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

ATP13A4 is involved in several key biological processes and pathways, such as:

- **Calcium Ion Homeostasis:** Crucial for many cellular processes, including muscle contraction, neurotransmitter release, and overall neuronal function.
- **Endosomal Transport:** Contributes to the transport of cations within endosomes, which is vital for maintaining cellular ion balance and signaling.
- **Protein Degradation Pathways:** May have roles related to autophagy and lysosomal function given its similarities to other ATPase family members.
  
### Summary

The ATP13A4 gene codes for a putative ATPase-coupled cation transmembrane transporter with predicted roles in maintaining calcium ion homeostasis and being involved in various cellular processes. While its association with diseases linked to aging is not definitively established, the gene's functions suggest that it could play a role in age-related neurodegenerative conditions. Further research is warranted to explore its interactions with potential pharmacological agents and its implication in health and disease through aging.