### Gene Overview: SNORD116-22

**Gene Symbol:** SNORD116-22 

The SNORD116-22 gene is part of the small nucleolar RNA (snoRNA) family. SnoRNAs are primarily involved in the modification and processing of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and play a crucial role in the synthesis of ribosomes. Specifically, SNORD116-22 is a C/D box snoRNA that is implicated in methylation of rRNA and possibly other snRNAs.

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### 1. Associated Genes

While the summaries from NCBI and UniProt may not specify additional associated genes, SNORD116-22 belongs to the larger SNORD116 gene cluster, which is located on chromosome 15q11.2. The following genes are associated within the same cluster:

- **SNORD116-1**: Another C/D box snoRNA that is also involved in rRNA modification.
- **SNORD116-23**: Part of the same snoRNA family and related to SNORD116-22 that may influence similar biological processes.

Additionally, certain genomic imbalances (such as deletions of the 15q11.2 region, which includes SNORD116-22) have been associated with neurodevelopmental disorders such as Prader-Willi Syndrome.

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### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases

Research indicates a potential involvement of SNORD116-22 in neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative processes. Altered expression of snoRNAs, including SNORD116-22, has been linked to mechanisms associated with aging and age-related diseases. 

While specific studies on SNORD116-22 are limited, factors such as altered ribosome biogenesis and cellular stress pathways that involve snoRNAs are increasingly being recognized as contributing factors to aging and age-related neurodegeneration. Furthermore, in mouse models, changes in snoRNA expression patterns have been observed during the aging process.

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### 3. Drug Interactions

As of October 2023, there are no specific drugs or drug classes that are recognized as direct interactors with SNORD116-22. However, since it participates in the ribosome biogenesis pathway, certain therapeutic agents that affect general RNA metabolism or inhibitors of protein synthesis may indirectly influence the activity of snoRNAs, including SNORD116-22. 

Research is ongoing, and future studies may uncover more specific interactions.

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### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

SNORD116-22 is primarily involved in the following biological pathways and processes:

- **Ribosome Biogenesis**: It plays a role in rRNA methylation, an essential process for the maturation and assembly of ribosomes.
- **RNA Modification**: As a snoRNA, it is implicated in guiding methylation marks on rRNA, affecting ribosome function.
- **Cellular Growth and Proliferation**: Given its role in ribosome biosynthesis, it is also indirectly involved in processes involving cell growth and proliferation.
  
**Relevant Pathways**: 

- **Maturation of rRNA**: The specific maturation of rRNA molecules from their precursors, which is crucial for ribosomal assembly.
- **Post-Transcriptional Modifications**: Involvement in the various modifications that occur to RNAs post-transcription, impacting their stability and function.

In summary, while specific studies on SNORD116-22 are still emerging, its role within the broader context of snoRNAs and ribosome biogenesis underscores its significance in cellular function, aging processes, and potential connections to various diseases, particularly neurodevelopmental disorders. Further research will provide a clearer picture of its influence and importance in these areas.