### HELZ2 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** HELZ2  
**Location:** Human Chromosome 7  
**Function:** The HELZ2 gene encodes a nuclear helicase that functions as a transcriptional co-activator for various nuclear receptors, including peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), thyroid hormones (THRA and THRB), and retinoid X receptor alpha (RXRA). It plays a role in activating transcription associated with these nuclear receptors.

### Additional Gene Associations
The HELZ2 gene is known to interact with and potentially influence the function of other genes and proteins involved in nuclear receptor signaling pathways. Some associated genes might include:

- **PPARA (Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha)** - a key nuclear receptor involved in lipid metabolism and energy homeostasis.
- **PPARG (Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma)** - a nuclear receptor that regulates glucose and lipid metabolism.
- **RXRA (Retinoid X receptor alpha)** - works as a heterodimer with other nuclear receptors, playing critical roles in developmental processes and metabolic regulation.

### Aging and Age-Related Diseases
While specific studies linking HELZ2 directly to aging processes are limited, helicases in general have been associated with various cellular processes that can impact aging, such as DNA repair, replication, and transcription. Changes in the activity or expression of helicases, including HELZ2, may influence the onset or progression of age-related diseases, particularly those involving metabolic dysregulation or neurodegenerative conditions. 

### Drug Interactions
Currently, there are no specific drugs or drug classes that have well-established interactions directly with HELZ2. However, given that HELZ2 acts as a co-activator for receptors involved in metabolic processes, it possibly influences responses to drugs targeting metabolic pathways, such as:

- Thiazolidinediones (e.g., Rosiglitazone, Pioglitazone) that modulate PPARγ activity.
- Fibrates (e.g., Gemfibrozil, Fenofibrate) that activate PPARα.

Moreover, research is ongoing to explore the potential therapeutic target roles of nuclear receptor co-activators like HELZ2 in metabolic syndromes and related diseases.

### Pathways and Biological Processes
The HELZ2 gene is involved in several biological processes and signaling pathways, including:

1. **Nuclear Receptor Signaling Pathway:** It acts as a co-regulator for a variety of nuclear hormone receptors, which modulate gene expression involved in metabolic processes, inflammation, and immune responses.
2. **Transcriptional Activation:** HELZ2 enhances the transcription of target genes upon activation by nuclear receptors, thus influencing various metabolic functions.
3. **Regulation of Gene Expression:** Participates in complex pathways that control gene expression linked to lipid metabolism, glucose homeostasis, and development.

In summary, HELZ2 is a multifunctional gene with significant implications for metabolic regulation and the interplay of nuclear signaling, but more research is needed to fully delineate its roles in aging and specific pathologies.