### PSME2 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** PSME2  
**Location:** Human chromosome 3  
**Function:** The PSME2 gene encodes a beta subunit of the 11S regulator (also known as PA28). This component is integral to the formation of the immunoproteasome, a specialized form of the proteasome that plays a role in the degradation of ubiquitin-tagged proteins and the presentation of antigenic peptides via Class I Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules.

### 1. Associated Genes
The PSME2 gene is part of the broader immunoproteasome complex, which includes several other genes:
- **PSMA3 (proteasome subunit alpha type 3)**
- **PSMB5 (proteasome subunit beta type 5)**
- **PSMB6 (proteasome subunit beta type 6)**
- **PSMC (proteasome ATPase subunits)**

Additionally, the PSME2 gene may interact functionally or genetically with other genes involved in immune response and proteolytic processes, but specific associations have not been extensively characterized.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
Although direct studies relating PSME2 to aging are limited, proteasome function is known to decline with age, which can affect protein homeostasis, cellular function, and stress responses. Dysregulation of proteasome function has been implicated in:
- Neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer’s, Parkinson's)
- Cancer (due to impaired regulation of oncoproteins)
- Inflammatory conditions

The role of PSME2 in immunoproteasome assembly suggests its importance in adaptive immunity. As aging often correlates with a decline in immune function (immunosenescence), PSME2 might indirectly play a role in age-related declines in immune response and increased susceptibility to infections and diseases in the elderly.

### 3. Drug Interactions
While specific drugs targeting PSME2 are not well-documented, the immunoproteasome has been a target for pharmacological manipulation in several contexts:
- **Proteasome inhibitors** (like Bortezomib) used in the treatment of multiple myeloma might indirectly affect PSME2 function by altering proteasome activity.
- **Antiviral agents** that modulate immune responses could also indirectly interact with the function of the immunoproteasome.
- **Anti-inflammatory medications** may impact pathways where this gene plays a minor role.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
PSME2 is involved in several key biological pathways and processes:
- **Proteolysis and Protein Degradation**: Part of the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway crucial for degrading misfolded or damaged proteins.
- **Antigen Processing and Presentation**: Facilitates the loading of peptides onto MHC Class I molecules, essential for T-cell activation.
- **Immune Response**: Influences the function of immune cells by regulating protein turnover and the processing of cytokines.
- **Response to Cytokines**: Induced by gamma-interferon, highlighting its role in inflammatory and immune signaling pathways.

Overall, PSME2 plays a critical role in the immune system by contributing to antigen presentation, which is vital for adaptive immunity, while its involvement in proteostasis connects it to broader physiological processes including aging and disease.