### Gene Overview: IK Gene

**Gene Symbol:** IK  
**Location:** Chromosome 5 (with a pseudogene on chromosome 2)  
**Function:** The IK gene encodes a protein involved in pre-mRNA splicing as part of the spliceosome. It is involved in regulating the selection of alternative splice sites in specific pre-mRNA target species and plays a role in mitotic cell cycle progression. The gene product is implicated in the recruitment of proteins MAD1L1 and MAD2L1, important for triggering the spindle assembly checkpoint, ensuring accurate chromosome segregation.

### 1. Associated Genes
While the primary summaries do not mention specific genes associated with IK, some downstream interaction partners or related genes may include:

- **MAD1L1 and MAD2L1:** These genes are involved in the spindle assembly checkpoint, interacting with the IK protein.
- **SMU1:** This gene is also mentioned in relation to the accumulation and function of the IK protein.
- Additional spliceosomal proteins may also indirectly relate to the function and regulation of the IK gene as part of the larger spliceosome machinery.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
Specific information regarding the IK gene's role in aging or age-related diseases is currently limited. However, since the gene is involved in cell cycle regulation and the maintenance of genomic integrity, there could be indirect implications in:

- **Cancer:** Dysregulation of spliceosomal components can lead to aberrant splicing, contributing to tumorigenesis. Altered expression levels of IK could influence cancer cell growth and survival.
- **Neurodegenerative Diseases:** As some splicing factors have been implicated in neurodegeneration, if the function of IK is compromised, it may contribute to these pathologies, although concrete associations remain to be elucidated.

### 3. Drug Interactions
Currently, specific drug interactions directly with the IK gene product are not well-documented in the literature. However, potential implications may arise from the broader involvement of spliceosomal components in disease contexts where certain drugs (like splicing modulators or antineoplastic agents) may alter spliceosome activity. Further research is needed to identify any direct drug interactions.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
The IK gene is involved in several important biological processes, including:

- **Pre-mRNA Splicing:** As part of the spliceosome complex, IK is directly involved in the maturation of pre-mRNA.
- **Regulation of Alternative Splicing:** IK plays a role in determining which splice sites are used in certain pre-mRNA transcripts.
- **Cell Cycle Regulation:** It contributes to normal cell cycle progression, particularly during mitosis.
- **Spindle Assembly Checkpoint:** Critical for the accurate segregation of chromosomes during cell division, ensuring that cells do not proceed with division until all chromosomes are properly aligned.

### Conclusion
The IK gene represents an important player in the molecular machinery of splicing and mitotic regulation, with potential implications in various diseases and cellular processes. Continuing research may uncover more about its interactions, roles in aging, and involvement in drug responses.