The RICTOR gene, encoding the RICTOR protein, is primarily known as a crucial component of the mTORC2 (mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 2) complex. As part of this complex, RICTOR plays a vital role in regulating several cellular functions, including growth, survival, metabolism, and cytoskeletal organization in response to growth factor signals.

### Additional Genes Associated with RICTOR:
Aside from those mentioned in your summaries, RICTOR is associated with various signaling pathways and may interact with several other genes, including:
- **RPCA** (Protein kinase C alpha): Involved in cell signaling related to growth and survival.
- **AKT1** (AKT serine/threonine kinase 1): Demonstrates a clear interaction with RICTOR, particularly concerning phosphorylation.
- **SGK1** (Serum/glucocorticoid-regulated kinase 1): Shares a functional relationship with RICTOR in signal transduction.
- **Rho GTPases** (such as RHOA, RAC1): These proteins are regulated downstream of mTORC2 and play a role in actin cytoskeleton dynamics.

### Aging and Age-Related Diseases:
Research has indicated that mTOR signaling, including the actions of mTORC2, is intricately linked to the aging process and various age-related diseases. Some key points include:
- **Age-Related Muscle Degeneration**: RICTOR's role in skeletal muscle growth and maintenance suggests that its dysregulation may influence sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss).
- **Metabolic Disorders**: Abnormalities in mTORC2 signaling have been associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other metabolic conditions prevalent in older adults.
- **Cancer**: Since mTORC2 may promote cell survival and proliferation, its aberrant regulation is linked to the proliferation of certain cancers, which are often more common in older populations.

### Drug Interactions:
Certain drugs and drug classes are known to interact with the mTOR signaling pathway, which includes RICTOR:
- **mTOR inhibitors** (such as rapamycin and its analogs, like everolimus): These agents primarily target mTORC1 but can also affect mTORC2 activity indirectly.
- **Antidiabetic drugs** (e.g., metformin): There are pathways indicating possible interactions between metformin and the mTOR signaling cascade, though its primary mode of action is separate.
- **Glucocorticoids**: These may influence the activity of SGK1, which is regulated by mTORC2.

### Pathways and Biological Processes Involved:
RICTOR participates in multiple critical biological processes and pathways, including:
- **mTOR signaling pathway**: Key for cell growth, proliferation, and survival.
- **Cellular response to hypoxia**: Influences how cells adapt to low oxygen levels.
- **Regulation of actin cytoskeleton**: Implicated in cell motility and morphology.
- **Insulin signaling pathway**: Connects to metabolic regulation and glucose homeostasis.
- **Regulation of FAAH** (fatty acid amide hydrolase): Linked to lipid metabolism and the endocannabinoid system.
- **Embryonic development and growth**: Essential for proper organismal development and organogenesis.

Rich connections between RICTOR and these genes, pathways, and clinical implications underscore its importance in both cell biology and potential therapeutic targeting. Further research is needed to elucidate its complete role in aging and age-related conditions.