### OR8K3 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** OR8K3  
**Function:** The OR8K3 gene encodes an olfactory receptor that plays a crucial role in the detection of odors. It belongs to a large family of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), which are integral to sensory perception, particularly in the olfactory system.

### 1. Associated Genes
While the NCBI and UniProt summaries do not specifically mention other genes associated with OR8K3, olfactory receptors often work in conjunction with several other receptors within the olfactory gene family. Some related genes could include:

- **Other OR genes:** Various OR genes (such as OR8K2, OR8K5) can share similar functional and structural characteristics given their roles in olfaction.
- **G-Protein Subunits:** Genes encoding G-proteins (e.g., GNAL for the alpha subunit of the Golf protein), which are essential for transducing signals from the olfactory receptors to the brain.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
Current understanding of the role of olfactory receptors, including OR8K3, in relation to aging and age-related diseases is still evolving. As individuals age, there is a well-documented decline in olfactory function, known as presbyosmia. While direct associations between OR8K3 and specific age-related diseases have not been definitively established, the following observations can be made:

- **Neurodegenerative Diseases:** Impaired olfactory function is often seen in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Some studies have suggested olfactory impairment can precede clinical symptoms of these conditions, possibly implicating olfactory receptor genes in disease pathology.

### 3. Drug Interaction
As of now, specific drugs or drug classes directly targeting the OR8K3 gene are not broadly documented in the literature. However, some classes of drugs that may potentially interact with olfactory receptors include:

- **Olfactory Agonists:** These may enhance olfactory signal transduction but lack detailed specifications for OR8K3 specifically.
- **Neuromodulators:** Psychotropic drugs, such as certain antidepressants or antipsychotics, may alter olfactory receptor function indirectly.

Typically, olfactory receptor genes are not main therapeutic targets, and most drug interactions remain largely indirect.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
The OR8K3 gene is involved in several biological processes:

- **Olfactory Signaling Pathway:** As part of the olfactory receptor gene family, OR8K3 is directly involved in the olfactory signaling pathways that lead to smell perception.
- **G-Protein Coupled Receptor Signaling Pathway:** OR8K3, as a GPCR, participates in signaling cascades triggered by odorant binding, leading to neuronal responses.
- **Sensory Perception of Smell:** The gene is fundamentally involved in the general process of sensory perception, specifically related to olfaction.

### Summary
In summary, the OR8K3 gene is a member of the extensive olfactory receptor family, crucial for detecting odors. While it associates with other GPCRs and olfactory receptor genes, its direct involvement with aging or specific drugs remains to be thoroughly researched. The larger context of olfactory function and potential decline with age or in neurodegenerative diseases may provide future avenues for exploration.