### CEP152 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** CEP152  
**Chromosomal Location:** 9p21.3  
**Function:** The CEP152 gene encodes a protein primarily involved in centrosome function, crucial for proper cell division. It facilitates the assembly of a complex that recruits CDK2 necessary for centriole duplication and acts as a molecular scaffold interacting with key proteins involved in centriole formation.

### 1. Associated Genes

In addition to the genes mentioned in the summaries (CEP63, CDK5RAP2, WDR62, PLK4, and CENPJ), CEP152 is also associated with:
- **CEP70:** a gene involved in centrosome function and stability.
- **CEP83:** plays a role in the assembly of centriolar satellites.
- **KIFC1:** a motor protein that can interact with centrioles.
- **MCAK (KIF2C):** a kinesin-like protein involved in microtubule depolymerization, depending on centrosomes.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases

Research indicates that anomalies in the CEP152 gene or its protein product can contribute to aging-associated pathologies due to its role in cellular division and replication. For instance:
- **Cellular Senescence:** Abnormalities in centrosome duplication can lead to aneuploidy and cellular senescence, contributing to the aging process.
- **Neurodegeneration:** Given its role in microcephaly, improper function of CEP152 may also be implicated in neurodegenerative diseases, as microcephaly is connected to developmental disorders and potential age-related cognitive decline.

### 3. Drugs and Drug Classes

Currently, there is limited information specifically linking drugs or drug classes to direct interactions with the CEP152 gene. However, potential future studies could leverage cancer therapeutics targeting centriole duplication processes, since CEP152 plays a fundamental role in cell cycle regulation. Classes of drugs to consider based on the centrosome-related roles may include:
- **Mitotic inhibitors (such as Taxanes and Vinca alkaloids):** Since these affect microtubule stability, indirectly influencing centrosome dynamics.
- **Inhibitors of Polo-like kinase (PLK):** As PLK4 is a key player in centriole duplication, compounds that target PLKs may also affect pathways involving CEP152.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

CEP152 is involved in several significant pathways and biological processes, including:
- **Centrosome Cycle:** CEP152 plays a critical role in the duplication of centrosomes and ensuring proper meiotic and mitotic spindle formation.
- **Centriole Formation:** Participates in the assembly of the centriole and its maintenance, which is essential during cell division.
- **Cell Cycle Regulation:** CEP152 contributes to the regulation of the cell cycle, particularly the G1/S transition where centriole duplication occurs.
- **Microtubule Organization:** Impacts the organization of the microtubule cytoskeleton through its functions at the centrosome.

### Summary

The CEP152 gene is indispensable for centrosome function and proper cell division, with implications in developmental disorders like microcephaly and potential relevance to aging and neurodegeneration. While it interacts with several key proteins and complexes to facilitate centriole duplication, its direct interactions with drugs remain an area for further exploration in therapeutic contexts. Understanding its pathways can provide valuable insights into cell biology and the mechanisms underlying age-related conditions.