### WDR72 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: WDR72  
**Entrez Gene ID**: 23597  
**Chromosomal Location**: Human chromosome 4q25  

The WDR72 gene encodes a protein consisting of eight WD-40 repeats, which are typically involved in protein–protein interactions and cellular processes. This gene is primarily associated with the formation of tooth enamel, and mutations in WDR72 can lead to amelogenesis imperfecta, specifically the hypomaturation type 2A3, which affects the quality and structure of enamel.

### 1. Associated Genes

The WDR72 gene may interact or be associated with several other genes, although specific genes may not be prominently mentioned in standard summaries. Some associations include:

- **SLC24A4**: As mentioned, WDR72 may be involved in the localization of the calcium transporter SLC24A4, which plays a critical role in enamel mineralization.
- **MMP20**: Matrix metalloproteinase 20 has been linked to amelogenesis and may functionally relate to pathways in which WDR72 is involved.
- **AMELX**: Amelogenin, essential for enamel formation, can also be indirectly influenced by the functions of WDR72.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases

As of the knowledge cutoff in October 2023, there are no direct and extensively documented associations between WDR72 and aging or age-related diseases. However, given the role of enamel in dental health, deteriorations in enamel integrity over time could be hypothetically influenced by dysregulation or mutations in WDR72. Age-related dental issues, particularly wear and tear or enamel erosion, may thus implicate the gene in broader oral health contexts.

### 3. Drug Interactions

There are no currently well-documented drugs specifically targeting or interacting directly with the WDR72 gene or its protein product. However, since WDR72 is implicated in tooth enamel formation, any systemic drugs affecting calcium homeostasis or dental health (such as bisphosphonates used in osteoporosis) could have secondary effects that may indirectly relate to the functioning of WDR72. Drug classes that could potentially be explored in this regard include:

- **Calcium Channel Blockers**: Medications targeting calcium pathways could theoretically influence the processes in which WDR72 is involved.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

WDR72 is involved in multiple biological processes, particularly those related to dental enamel formation. Some key pathways include:

- **Amelogenesis**: Specifically during the maturation phase, where the enamel matrix is formed, and enamel proteins are cleared.
- **Calcium Ion Transport**: The potential localization and regulation of calcium transport mechanisms play a significant role in enamel mineralization.
- **Intracellular Protein Transport**: Given the nature of WD-repeat proteins, WDR72 might be involved in broader cellular signaling pathways and vesicle transport processes.

### Conclusion

Overall, the WDR72 gene plays a critical role in tooth enamel formation via its protein product's involvement in processes such as cellular transport and protein interactions. While the gene's primary association with amelogenesis imperfecta is well documented, further research might illuminate its relationships with other genes and potential implications in aging or therapeutic areas.