### PRICKLE3 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** PRICKLE3  
**Function:** PRICKLE3 encodes a protein with three LIM domains, playing a crucial role in the planar cell polarity (PCP) pathway. This pathway is pivotal in the polarization of epithelial cells during various morphogenetic processes such as gastrulation and neurulation. PRICKLE3 is part of the core module of the PCP pathway, interacting with other proteins to ensure correct cellular orientation and function.

### 1. Associated Genes
PRICKLE3 is known to be associated with several other genes and proteins involved in the PCP pathway and related processes. Some examples include:
- **PRICKLE1:** Another member of the prickle gene family involved in PCP signaling.
- **Dishevelled (DVL family):** Involved in Wnt signaling and crucial for PCP signaling.
- **Van Gogh-like (VANG) genes:** Such as VANGL1 and VANGL2, which are also key components of the PCP pathway.
- **Fuzzy (FUZ):** Involved in regulating the core PCP components.
- **Strabismus (STBM):** Implicated in planar cell polarity signaling alongside PRICKLE3.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
While specific studies directly linking PRICKLE3 to aging or age-related diseases are limited, its involvement in important cellular processes suggests possible implications:
- **Mitochondrial Dysfunction:** Given its role in mitochondrial assembly and function, disruptions in PRICKLE3 activity could be linked to age-related metabolic disorders due to compromised mitochondrial integrity.
- **Neurodegenerative Diseases:** Given its role in neurulation and cilia positioning, alterations in PRICKLE3 function may contribute to disorders like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease as these conditions often involve disrupted cellular polarity and mitochondrial dysfunction.

### 3. Drug Interactions
As of the latest information, there are no specific drugs or drug classes that have been explicitly documented for direct interaction with PRICKLE3 in public databases. However, it is essential to note that agents affecting the PCP pathway (like Wnt modulators) may indirectly influence its functions.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
PRICKLE3 is associated with several key pathways:
- **Planar Cell Polarity Pathway:** Central role in establishing and maintaining polarity in epithelial cells.
- **Mitochondrial Assembly and Function:** Involved in mitochondrial complex V assembly and function, influencing ATP synthesis.
- **Cilia Formation and Positioning:** Critical for normal ciliary function, affecting signaling pathways in cells that use cilia for sensory functions.
- **Morphogenetic Processes:** Key in processes like gastrulation and neurulation, influencing embryonic development.

In summary, PRICKLE3 is a significant player in cellular organization and signaling pathways, with implications in development, potentially aging, and related pathologies. Further research could elucidate its precise roles in age-related processes and therapeutic interactions.