### PRDX3 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** PRDX3  
**Location:** Chromosome 10 (10q26.1)  
**Gene Function:** PRDX3 encodes a mitochondrial thiol-specific peroxidase, which plays a significant role in cellular defenses against oxidative stress by catalyzing the reduction of hydrogen peroxide and organic hydroperoxides to less harmful compounds (water and alcohols). 

### 1. Associated Genes
While the NCBI and UniProt summaries highlight connections primarily with the MAP3K13 gene regarding the activation of NF-kappa-B, additional genes and proteins associated with PRDX3 include:

- **PRDX1, PRDX2, PRDX4, PRDX5:** These are members of the peroxiredoxin family, which also have antioxidant functions.
- **NF-kappa-B genes (e.g., RELA, NFKB1):** Involved in the inflammation response and may interact with PRDX3 in signaling pathways.
- **AKT (AKT1, AKT2, AKT3):** These are part of cell survival and growth signaling pathways that may be modulated by oxidative stress levels.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
PRDX3 has been implicated in several aspects related to aging and age-related diseases:

- **Oxidative Stress and Aging:** As organisms age, the accumulation of oxidative damage contributes to aging. PRDX3, by detoxifying reactive oxygen species (ROS), may play a role in mitigating oxidative damage and thus influences aging.
- **Cancer:** PRDX3 has been analyzed in contexts of tumorigenesis, especially prostate cancer, where it promotes cell survival under oxidative stress conditions. Elevated levels of PRDX3 have been associated with certain cancers, suggesting it may play a role in cancer progression through its antioxidant properties.

### 3. Drug Interactions
While specific drug interactions directly with PRDX3 are not extensively noted, antioxidants and drugs targeting oxidative stress could potentially influence its activity or expression. Potential classes of drugs that might interact indirectly include:

- **Antioxidants (e.g., ascorbic acid, curcumin):** These could complement the function of PRDX3 by further reducing oxidative stress.
- **Anti-cancer agents:** Some chemotherapeutics could modulate PRDX3 expression or activity as part of the cellular response to oxidative conditions.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
PRDX3 is involved in several critical biological processes and pathways:

- **Antioxidant Defense:** The primary role of PRDX3 is in protecting cells from oxidative stress.
- **Regulation of NF-kappa-B Signaling Pathway:** PRDX3 interacts with MAP3K13 to influence the activation of NF-kappa-B, which is crucial in mediating inflammation and cell survival.
- **Cell Proliferation and Survival:** In addition to its antioxidant roles, PRDX3 is implicated in regulating pathways associated with cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis.
- **Mitochondrial Function:** Given its mitochondrial localization, PRDX3 is involved in maintaining mitochondrial integrity and function, impacting energy metabolism and apoptosis.

### Conclusion
PRDX3 is a vital gene that encodes an antioxidant enzyme playing multiple roles in cellular protection against oxidative stress, regulation of key signaling pathways, and potential implications in aging and cancer. Its interactions with various pathways highlight its importance in maintaining cellular homeostasis and influencing age-related processes.