### SLC27A3 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** SLC27A3  
**Location:** Chromosome 11, human genome  
**Protein Product:** Fatty acid transport protein 3 (FATP3)  

The SLC27A3 gene encodes for a member of the solute carrier family, specifically an integral membrane protein involved in lipid metabolism, particularly in fatty acid transport and metabolism. The protein is primarily known for its role as an acyl-CoA ligase, where it facilitates the ATP-dependent conversion of fatty acids into acyl-CoA, thereby regulating fatty acid levels within cells.

### 1. Associated Genes

While SLC27A3 is particularly associated with genes involved in lipid metabolism, there are several other genes of interest:

- **SLC27A1 and SLC27A2:** Other members of the SLC27 family, involved in fatty acid transport.
- **FADS1, FADS2:** These genes encode fatty acid desaturases, which are involved in the metabolism of polyunsaturated fatty acids.
- **PPARα, PPARγ:** Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors associated with lipid metabolism and known mediators of insulin sensitivity and fatty acid oxidation.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases

Research suggests that dysregulation of fatty acid metabolism is implicated in various age-related diseases, including:

- **Alzheimer's Disease:** Abnormal lipid metabolism is linked to the disease pathogenesis, and SLC27A3 may influence neural health by modulating fatty acid levels in brain cells.
- **Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome:** Alterations in fatty acid transport and metabolism are associated with obesity, and SLC27A3 may play a role in the development of insulin resistance.
- **Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD):** As noted in the summaries, mutations and expression levels of SLC27A3 exhibit associations with ASD, suggesting its relevance during developmental stages.

### 3. Drug Interactions

While specific drugs directly targeting SLC27A3 are not widely documented, its influence on lipid metabolism means that drugs affecting lipid profiles may indirectly interact with the gene's function. Drug classes that may have interactions or effects include:

- **Fibrates:** Drugs used to lower lipid levels in the blood, which may indirectly affect fatty acid transport processes involving SLC27A3.
- **Omega-3 fatty acid supplements:** These can interact with the metabolism pathways SLC27A3 influences.

Further research may reveal more specific interactions or therapeutic implications related to drugs.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

SLC27A3 is involved in several key biological pathways and processes:

- **Fatty Acid Metabolism:** SLC27A3 plays a direct role in the uptake and metabolism of long-chain fatty acids (LCFAs), impacting the fatty acid pool within cells.
- **Lipid Transport:** It mediates the transport of fatty acids across cellular membranes, especially in tissues such as the brain where lipid homeostasis is crucial.
- **Acyl-CoA Biosynthesis:** Integral to the formation of acyl-CoA from fatty acids, which is necessary for various metabolic pathways including energy production and synthesis of complex lipids.
- **Neurodevelopment:** Its expression in neural stem cells suggests a role in neurogenesis and neural differentiation processes.

### Summary

The SLC27A3 gene is a critical player in lipid metabolism, particularly through its role as an acyl-CoA ligase. Its involvement in brain development and associations with autism spectrum disorders emphasize its biological significance, while potential implications in aging and metabolic diseases highlight its relevance in various health contexts. Further exploration of its interactions and pathways continues to be an important area of research in understanding lipid metabolism and related disorders.