### ILF2 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** ILF2  
**Protein Name:** Nuclear factor 45 (NF45)  
**Gene Location:** Chromosome 16

The ILF2 gene encodes a 45 kDa protein that functions as a transcription factor and is vital for T-cell expression of the interleukin 2 gene. This gene is crucial for various cellular processes, including RNA binding, nuclear export, and the repair of DNA breaks. ILF2 forms a heterodimer with interleukin enhancer-binding factor 3 (NF90/ILF3), impacting several critical biological pathways.

### 1. Associated Genes

ILF2 is associated with several other genes, particularly in the context of its interaction with NF90/ILF3. Some of the notable genes include:

- **ILF3 (NF90):** Forms a complex with ILF2, essential for RNA binding and nuclear function.
- **STAU1 and STAU2:** These genes encode proteins involved in the mRNA decay pathways that compete with the ILF2/ILF3 complex.
- **IL2:** The gene directly influenced by ILF2 in T-cells for interleukin production.
- **ATM:** Involved in DNA damage response pathways where ILF2 plays a role.

### 2. Age-Related Details

Research has indicated that ILF2 may be implicated in age-related processes, particularly concerning the regulation of mRNA stability and DNA repair mechanisms. Aberrant functions or downregulation of ILF2 and its associated partners (like ILF3) have been linked to cellular senescence and age-associated pathologies. Here are some details:

- **Cellular Senescence:** ILF2 may influence the longevity of cells by stabilizing mRNA that encodes for proteins necessary to maintain cell integrity.
- **Cancer:** Given its role in mRNA regulation and cellular growth, altered expression of ILF2 might correlate with cancer development, which is more prevalent in aging populations.
- **Neurodegenerative Diseases:** ILF2's interaction with various signaling pathways hints at possible roles in neurodegenerative disorders, given the increased incidence of such diseases in older adults.

### 3. Drug Interactions

While direct drugs targeting ILF2 specifically may not be well-documented, there are several classes of drugs that might interact indirectly through its pathways or associated proteins:

- **Antiviral Drugs:** ILF2 is involved in the inhibition of certain viruses (e.g., Hepatitis B), which suggests that antiviral therapies targeting viral polymerases may inadvertently involve mechanisms meditated by ILF2.
- **Transcription Inhibitors:** Some compounds may indirectly affect ILF2 activity through modulation of transcription factors or nuclear export mechanisms.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

ILF2 is involved in several essential biological pathways and processes, including:

- **Gene Transcription:** Acts as a transcription factor influencing IL-2 expression and other genes involved in immune responses.
- **RNA Processing:** Forms a complex with ILF3 to facilitate the shuttling of RNA and participates in mRNA stabilization.
- **DNA Repair:** Plays a role in the nonhomologous end joining pathway for repairing DNA double-strand breaks.
- **Cell Cycle Regulation:** Involved in mitotic progression and cytokinesis, promoting the expression of mitotic genes.
- **Innate Immunity:** Assists in the cellular defense against viral infections and may affect pathways implicated in the body's innate immune response.

### Summary

The ILF2 gene plays a multifaceted role in cellular processes such as transcription regulation, DNA repair, and RNA protein interactions. Its complex partnerships, notably with ILF3, highlight its significance in the immune response and cellular integrity. While ILF2's implications in aging and age-related diseases warrant further exploration, its involvement in various biological processes and association with numerous human health conditions underlines its importance in genetic and bioinformatic studies.