### CEP44 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: CEP44  
**Location**: Chromosome 4q28.1  
**Entrez Gene ID**: 27170  
**UniProt ID**: Q8NDR7

### Function and Associations

CEP44 encodes a microtubule-binding protein that plays a crucial role in the biogenesis and replication of centrioles, as well as maintaining centrosome cohesion. In collaboration with other proteins such as **CEP295** and **POC1B**, CEP44 is essential for the formation of the structural integrity of centrioles, critical components of the cell's centrosome and spindle apparatus. 

#### Associated Genes:
While the summaries provided mention CEP295 and POC1B, here are additional genes that may interact with or be associated with CEP44:

1. **CROCC (Centrosomal protein of 1.5 kDa)**: Involved in microtubule organization.
2. **CEP63 (Centrosomal protein 63 kDa)**: Important for centriole assembly.
3. **TYW1 (tRNA tyrosyl synthetase 1)**: May interact in the context of ciliary assembly.
4. **ASPM (Abnormal spindle-like microcephaly-associated)**: Involved in spindle organization as well.

### Aging and Age-Related Diseases

The central role of CEP44 in centriole biogenesis and centrosome function suggests potential implications in aging and age-related diseases, particularly in the context of:

- **Cellular Senescence**: Impairments in centrosome function and cell division may contribute to senescence, which is a hallmark of aging.
- **Neurodegenerative Diseases**: Given its role in cell division and organization, disruptions in CEP44 function could play a role in neurodegeneration, particularly in diseases like Alzheimer's disease, where cellular integrity is compromised.

However, specific studies directly linking CEP44 mutations or expression changes to aging or particular age-related diseases have not been thoroughly established.

### Drug Interactions

While there may not be direct interactions or clinically relevant drugs specifically targeting CEP44, drugs that influence microtubule dynamics, such as:

- **Paclitaxel** (Taxol): A chemotherapeutic drug that stabilizes microtubules.
- **Vincristine**: A chemotherapeutic agent that disrupts microtubule formation.

These drugs can indirectly affect the functional pathways CEP44 is involved in due to their action on microtubule organization.

### Pathways and Biological Processes

CEP44 is involved in several key cellular pathways and biological processes, including but not limited to:

1. **Centriole Biogenesis**: Essential for the formation and replication of centrioles.
2. **Centriole-to-Centrosome Conversion**: A necessary process for the transition of newly formed centrioles into functional centrosomes.
3. **Cohesion of Centrosomes**: Maintains the closing structure cohesion during cell cycle progression.
4. **Microtubule Dynamics**: Acts in conjunction with microtubules, which are vital for mitosis and other cellular processes requiring maintaining cellular architecture.

### Summary

The CEP44 gene plays a critical role in the dynamics of the centrosome and centriole, linking it to essential cellular functions. As gene research continues, particularly within the contexts mentioned above, further elucidation of its functions related to aging, disease, and therapeutic targets may emerge.