### CPE Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: CPE  
**Full Name**: Carboxypeptidase E  
**Gene Type**: Protein-coding  

The CPE gene encodes a member of the M14 family of metallocarboxypeptidases. The CPE protein is integral to the biosynthesis of peptide hormones and neurotransmitters, acting specifically on the C-terminal end of peptide precursors to cleave off dibasic residues following initial endoprotease cleavage.

### 1. Associated Genes

The CPE gene is primarily associated with several other genes involved in similar metabolic and signaling pathways:

- **INS** (Insulin): CPE processes proinsulin to insulin.
- **CARTPT** (Cocaine- and Amphetamine-Regulated Transcript Precursor): Related to the neuropeptide processing.
- **PCSK1** (Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin-Type 1): Involved in the initial cleavage of prohormones.
- **CPEB** (Cytoplasmic Polyadenylation Element Binding Protein): Related to regulation of mRNA translation, potentially relevant in neuroendocrine functions.
  
### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases

The CPE gene has been implicated in the following contexts related to aging and age-related diseases:

- **Type 2 Diabetes**: Genetic mutations in CPE can influence insulin processing and secretion, contributing to the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes, which is often associated with aging.
- **Neurodegenerative Disorders**: Given that CPE acts as a neurotrophic factor, it may have a role in protecting neuronal survival, an area of interest in age-related neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.
- **Metabolic Syndrome**: CPE dysfunction may also relate to other components of metabolic syndrome, which can be exacerbated by aging.
  
### 3. Drug Interactions

While specific drugs that directly target CPE are not well established, the following drug classes can impact pathways associated with this gene:

- **Antidiabetic Agents**: These may interact with insulin processing pathways influenced by CPE.
- **Neuroprotective Agents**: Research into pharmacological agents that enhance neuronal survival could indirectly affect the activity of CPE.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

The CPE gene is involved in several important biological pathways and processes:

- **Regulated Secretion Pathway**: CPE plays a role in directing prohormones to the regulated secretory pathway, facilitating the secretion of peptide hormones.
- **Neuropeptide Processing**: CPE contributes to the maturation of neuropeptides essential for neurotransmission and neuroendocrine signaling.
- **Insulin Secretion**: Essential for the final processing of proinsulin, directly impacting glucose metabolism.
- **Neuronal Survival**: CPE is suggested to have neurotrophic properties, essential in the support of neuronal health and function.

### Conclusion

The CPE gene is a critical component of metabolic and neuroendocrine regulation, with significant implications for diabetes and neurological health, especially in the context of aging. Further research may elucidate drug interactions and therapeutic targeting opportunities related to this highly relevant gene.