### GSTZ1 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** GSTZ1

**Function:** The GSTZ1 gene encodes an enzyme that is part of the glutathione S-transferase (GST) superfamily, which plays a critical role in detoxifying harmful compounds by conjugating them with glutathione. Specifically, GSTZ1 catalyzes the conversion of maleylacetoacetate to fumarylacetoacetate, an important step in the degradation pathways of phenylalanine and tyrosine. Furthermore, it shows minimal glutathione-conjugating activity and low glutathione peroxidase activity, which contributes to its multifunctional characteristics.

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### 1. Associated Genes
While there are no widely noted genes specifically referenced in the NCBI and UniProt summaries concerning GSTZ1, it is important to note that GSTZ1 is part of a larger family of glutathione S-transferases. Other members of the GST superfamily that often exhibit functional interactions include:
- **GSTA1**: A class alpha GST involved in similar detoxification processes.
- **GSTP1**: A prevalent class pi GST that helps in the metabolism of various drugs and xenobiotics.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
While direct links between GSTZ1 and aging or specific age-related diseases may not be extensively documented, its role in detoxification and cellular stress response implies significance in age-related health. The enzyme may affect:
- **Oxidative Stress:** The deficiency of GSTZ1 or its functional homologs can contribute to oxidative stress, which is a factor in aging and age-associated diseases such as neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer.
- **Metabolomic Changes:** Variations in the activity of detoxifying enzymes like GSTZ1 may influence how the body handles potentially harmful metabolites as it ages.

### 3. Drug Interactions
Specific drug or drug classes known to interact with GSTZ1 include:
- **Ethacrynic Acid:** A diuretic that demonstrates some level of glutathione conjugation activity via GSTZ1.
- **7-Chloro-4-nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazole:** This compound is also tested for glutathione-conjugating activity with GSTZ1.
- **Dichloroacetic Acid:** The enzyme can catalyze the glutathione-dependent oxygenation of this compound, adding implications for its metabolism in the context of certain therapeutic approaches, particularly those involving metabolic disorders.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
GSTZ1 is involved in several important biological pathways:
- **Tyrosine and Phenylalanine Metabolism:** Catalyzes conversions in the catabolic pathways of these amino acids, which are crucial for various metabolic processes.
- **Detoxification Pathways:** Plays a significant role in modifying and detoxifying potential harmful compounds, contributing to cellular defense mechanisms.
- **Oxidative Stress Response:** Although not the primary action, it may also participate in the cellular response to oxidative stress.

### Summary
The GSTZ1 gene is vital for detoxifying harmful substances, particularly through its enzymatic actions on specific metabolites. Its broader interactions with other GST family members, its implications in aging and oxidative stress-related diseases, potential drug interactions, and involvement in key metabolic pathways underscore its significance in genetic and biomedical research. Understanding GSTZ1 could pave the way for advancements in treatment strategies targeting metabolism and detoxification processes in various health contexts.