### SKA3 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: SKA3  
**Location**: Human chromosome 8p11.23  
**Function**: SKA3 encodes a protein that is a vital component of the spindle and kinetochore-associated protein complex (SKA complex), which plays a crucial role in the regulation of microtubule attachment to kinetochores during mitosis. It is essential for proper chromosome segregation, which ensures that daughter cells receive an accurate and complete set of chromosomes during cell division.

### 1. Associated Genes
SKA3 is linked with several other genes, particularly within the context of the SKA complex and kinetochore function. Notable associations include:

- **SKA1**: Another component of the SKA complex.
- **NDC80**: Part of the NDC80 complex that facilitates the interaction between kinetochores and microtubules.
- **AUDR**: It is sometimes mentioned in association with SKA3 concerning cellular processes impacting mitosis.
- **CCNA2 (Cyclin A2)** and **CCNB1 (Cyclin B1)**: Cyclins that regulate the cell cycle, particularly during mitosis, and may interact with mitotic checkpoints influenced by SKA3 function.

### 2. Aging and Age-related Diseases
Research into SKA3 suggests potential roles in aging and age-related diseases primarily due to its involvement in cell division and chromosomal stability:

- **Cancer**: Dysregulation of SKA3 and related proteins can lead to aberrant cell division and aneuploidy, which are hallmarks of many cancers. As cells age, the increased risk of mutations and chromosomal instability correlates with the compromised function of the SKA complex.
- **Cellular Senescence**: There is some evidence implying that altered kinetochore function, including components like SKA3, may contribute to the senescence of cells, impacting tissue repair and regeneration with age.

### 3. Drug Interactions
Currently, there are no specific FDA-approved drugs that target SKA3 directly. However, certain classes of drugs that affect mitosis and microtubule dynamics may indirectly impact its function:

- **Antimicrotubule Agents**: Drugs like taxanes (e.g., Paclitaxel) and Vinca alkaloids (e.g., Vincristine) disrupt microtubule dynamics, which may influence SKA3 function indirectly by altering kinetochore-microtubule interactions.
- **Chemotherapeutics**: Agents that target the mitotic spindle can also affect the function of the SKA complex as a whole.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
SKA3 is involved in several significant cellular processes and pathways:

- **Mitosis**: SKA3 is crucial for the proper assembly and function of kinetochores during metaphase, facilitating the accurate segregation of chromosomes.
- **Microtubule Binding**: It interacts directly with microtubules as part of the SKA1 complex to promote chromosome stability during division.
- **Kinetochore Assembly and Function**: The SKA complex is instrumental in kinetochores' attachment to spindle fibers and ensuring proper tension and signaling during mitosis.
- **Gene Expression Regulation**: Emerging evidence suggests that SKA proteins may have roles beyond mitosis, such as linking with cellular signaling pathways and gene expression.

In summary, SKA3 plays a critical role in cell division, chromosome stability, and potential implications in cancer and aging, positioning it as an interesting target for ongoing and future research in cell biology and therapeutic strategies.