### PI4KB Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** PI4KB  
**Function:** The PI4KB gene encodes a protein that is a 1-phosphatidylinositol 4-kinase, which catalyzes the conversion of phosphatidylinositol (PI) to phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate (PIP), a key step in the biosynthesis of inositol phosphates that serve as second messengers in various signaling pathways. It also interacts with 14-3-3 proteins, suggesting roles in protein-protein interactions and signaling. It is predicted to be involved in the phosphatidylinositol phosphate biosynthetic process and phosphatidylinositol-mediated signaling. 

### 1. Associated Genes
While specific gene associations can vary, PI4KB is known to have interactions with several other genes involved in signaling and cellular processes. Some of these include:
- **PI3K** (Phosphoinositide 3-kinase): Involved in PI signaling and cell survival.
- **Akt/PKB**: A major downstream effector of PI3K signaling, playing critical roles in cell survival and metabolism.
- **RAC1**: A member of the Rho family of GTPases that may influence PI signaling pathways.
- **IRS** (Insulin Receptor Substrate): Tied to insulin signaling which can subsequently be linked to PI signaling.

These relationships can help to better understand the broader network of signal transduction pathways in which PI4KB is involved.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
Research has suggested that PI4KB may play a role in age-related conditions, particularly due to its involvement in cellular signaling and possibly in mitochondrial function. Dysregulation of phosphatidylinositol signaling has been linked to a variety of aging-related diseases, such as:
- **Neurodegenerative Diseases**: Abnormalities in lipid signaling processes have been implicated in Alzheimer's disease and other conditions.
- **Metabolic Disorders**: Alterations in PI pathways are linked to insulin resistance, a common condition in aging populations that contributes to Type 2 diabetes.

While direct evidence specifically linking PI4KB to these conditions may be limited, its role in critical signaling pathways means it could contribute to the biological changes observed during aging.

### 3. Drug and Drug Classes Interaction
There may not be a specific list of drugs directly targeting PI4KB; however, the downstream effects associated with disturbances in the PI4KB function can intersect with several classes of drugs:
- **Phosphoinositide 3-kinase inhibitors**: Given the interconnected PI signaling pathways.
- **Antineoplastic agents**: As PI signaling can influence cell survival, agents affecting these pathways might indirectly relate to PI4KB function.
- **Drugs affecting 14-3-3 protein interactions**: Since PI4KB binds 14-3-3, compounds that inhibit these interactions might exert effects on this pathway.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
PI4KB is involved in several critical biological processes and signaling pathways, including:
- **Phosphatidylinositol signaling pathway**: Key for signal transduction within cells affecting various physiological functions.
- **Regulation of Golgi apparatus functions**: Involved in Golgi disintegration/reorganization during mitosis and is implicated in Golgi-to-plasma membrane trafficking.
- **Developmental processes**: Particularly, development in the inner ear and potentially other tissues.

It may also play roles in:
- **Cell cycle regulation**
- **Neuronal signal transduction**
- **Cellular metabolism**

### Conclusion
PI4KB is a central player in lipid signaling, with implications in cellular organization, signaling pathways, and development. Ongoing research may provide additional insights into its role in aging, disease, and potential therapeutic targets.