### Detailed Description of the CCDC120 Gene:

**Gene Overview:**
- **Gene Symbol:** CCDC120
- **Location:** Chromosome 1
- **Function:** The CCDC120 gene encodes a protein integral for centriole function, particularly in the assembly of subdistal appendages and anchoring of microtubules. It plays a critical role in cellular organization and structure, which is essential for proper cellular function and division.

### 1. Associated Genes:
CCDC120 is known to work in conjunction with several other genes involved in centriole assembly and related processes. Besides CCDC68, some other associated genes include:
- **ODF2 (Outer dense fiber of sperm tails 2):** Involved in the structure of the centriole.
- **NIN (Ninein):** Involved in microtubule organization.
- **CEP170 (Centrosomal protein 170 kDa):** Plays a role in regulating microtubule anchoring.
- **ARF6 (ADP-ribosylation factor 6):** Involved in vesicle trafficking and neurite growth.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases:
While direct associations of CCDC120 with aging or specific age-related diseases are not well-defined, its role in neuronal development and microtubule function suggests it may be indirectly linked to neurodegenerative diseases. Impaired microtubule stability and centriole function have been implicated in age-related disorders, particularly those affecting neuronal health, such as Alzheimer's disease. Dysregulation of its function may contribute to neuronal degeneration and decreased regenerative capacity in aging organisms.

### 3. Drug Interactions:
Currently, there are no specific drugs or drug classes explicitly known to interact with the CCDC120 gene. However, drugs that target pathways related to microtubule stability and centriole function (such as taxanes and vinca alkaloids) may indirectly affect processes in which CCDC120 is involved. Additionally, drugs that modulate neuronal growth or regeneration could influence the pathways involving CCDC120 due to its role in neurite growth.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes:
CCDC120 is implicated in several biological pathways and processes, including:
- **Centriole assembly and function:** CCDC120 is essential for the assembly of subdistal appendages in centrioles, facilitating proper cell division.
- **Neurite outgrowth:** The protein recruits components that are vital for neurite growth and is involved in directing cargo (such as CYTH2) along neurites which is necessary for neuronal differentiation and connectivity.
- **Microtubule anchoring:** It assists in the stabilization of microtubules, which are critical for maintaining cell shape and enabling intracellular transport.
- **Cell cycle regulation:** Given its role in centriole function, CCDC120 may indirectly influence cell cycle progression and stability.

Through these associations with various partners and processes, CCDC120 appears to be a significant player in maintaining cellular integrity, particularly in neurons, and thus may have implications in developmental biology and age-related pathology.
