### SNORD116-18 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** SNORD116-18

SNORD116-18 is a small nucleolar RNA (snoRNA) that is part of the SNORD116 cluster, located on chromosome 15 in humans. It is primarily involved in the methylation of ribosomal RNA, which plays a crucial role in the modification of ribosomal RNA in nucleolus.

### 1. Associated Genes

While SNORD116-18 is often discussed in the context of its role in ribosomal RNA modification, it is specifically associated with disorders involving the 15q11.2 chromosomal region. This region includes several genes, particularly when considering the genetic abnormalities that can lead to conditions like Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS). Other associated genes may include:

- **SNORD116** (entire cluster)
- **UBE3A** (ubiquitin-protein ligase), implicated in Angelman Syndrome
- **SNRPN** (small nuclear ribonucleoprotein N), also associated with Prader-Willi Syndrome and Angelman Syndrome.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases

Current research indicates potential implications of small nucleolar RNAs, including SNORD116-18, in aging and age-related diseases. While specific studies focusing on SNORD116-18 itself in relation to aging are limited, changes in snoRNA expression profiles have been associated with age-related processes. In particular, alterations in RNA methylation have been implicated in neurodegenerative diseases and conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. The 15q11.2 region is often considered in the study of PWS, which has implications for metabolic syndrome, obesity, and cognitive decline—parameters often associated with aging.

### 3. Drug Interactions

As of October 2023, there are no specific drugs or drug classes directly known to target or interact with SNORD116-18. Since it is an RNA molecule, it does not have a direct targetable protein product and is not typically associated with pharmacological treatments. However, drugs targeting pathways related to ribosomal biogenesis and RNA processing could indirectly impact functions related to SNORD116-18.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

SNORD116-18 is primarily involved in several biological processes, including:

- **RNA Methylation:** Specifically, it contributes to the 2'-O-methylation of ribosomal RNA, which is essential for ribosome assembly and function.
- **Nucleolar Organization:** As a snoRNA, it plays a role in the formation and maintenance of nucleoli where ribosomal RNA is processed and assembled.
- **Gene Regulation:** SnoRNAs are implicated in the regulation of splicing and the processing of pre-mRNA, influencing gene expression dynamics.

Additionally, studies suggest that dysfunction in snoRNA pathways can lead to disruptions in RNA metabolism, which could affect cellular aging and organism longevity.

### Summary

In summary, SNORD116-18 is a snoRNA involved in the methylation of ribosomal RNA, with associations linked to genomic regions relevant in syndromes such as Prader-Willi and Angelman. Its implications in aging and associated diseases are still under investigation, and no specific drug interactions have been identified. The biological processes related to this gene highlight its importance in ribosomal assembly and RNA metabolism.