### EIF3EP2 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** EIF3EP2  
**Location:** This gene is located on chromosome 3 and encodes a protein that is a part of the eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 (eIF3) complex, which plays a crucial role in the initiation of translation.

### Associated Genes
While specific associations can vary across studies and databases, EIF3EP2 may show interactions or co-expression with genes that also play roles in translation and ribosome function, such as:
- **EIF3F** (Eukaryotic Translation Initiation Factor 3 Subunit F)
- **EIF4E** (Eukaryotic Translation Initiation Factor 4E)
- **RPS6** (Ribosomal Protein S6)
- **RPL5** (Ribosomal Protein L5)

### Aging and Age-Related Diseases
Currently, there is limited direct evidence linking EIF3EP2 specifically to aging or age-related diseases in the primary literature. However, as a component of the translation initiation machinery, alterations in translation efficiency can reflect or contribute to cellular aging processes. Aberrations in protein synthesis pathways have been implicated in several age-related diseases, notably neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and metabolic disorders.

### Drug Interactions
As of my last data update, there are no specific drugs or drug classes explicitly mentioned in primary literature or databases that are known to directly interact with EIF3EP2. However, it may be indirectly affected by drugs that target the general translation machinery or related pathways, such as:
- **Antibiotics** (e.g., aminoglycosides and macrolides) that target ribosomal functions.
- **Chemotherapeutic agents** that affect protein synthesis.

### Pathways and Biological Processes
EIF3EP2 is involved in several key biological processes, including:
- **Translation initiation**: It is specifically part of the eIF3 complex, facilitating the recruitment of the ribosome to mRNA.
- **Ribosome biogenesis**: Contributes to the assembly of ribosomes, which are critical for protein synthesis.
- **Cellular response to nutrients and growth factors**: As a component of the translation machinery, it plays an integral role in how cells respond to these external signals by modulating protein synthesis.

### Conclusion 
EIF3EP2 plays a significant role as part of the eIF3 translation initiation complex, influencing protein synthesis—an essential process for cellular function and maintenance. While its direct involvement in aging or drug interactions is not extensively documented, its contributions to translation and ribosome function link it to fundamental biological processes highly relevant to cellular health and disease. Further research may elucidate more specific roles and therapeutic targets involving EIF3EP2.