### MIR487A Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: MIR487A  
**Function**: MIR487A encodes a microRNA that plays a pivotal role in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. MicroRNAs like MIR487A modulate the stability and translation of target messenger RNAs (mRNAs) by incorporating into the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC), which leads to either mRNA degradation or translational repression.

### 1. Associated Genes
MIR487A has been shown to be associated with several target genes, although not explicitly listed in the provided summaries. Some of the genes that are frequently cited in studies involving MIR487A include:

- **TP53**: Tumor protein p53, a critical regulator of the cell cycle and apoptosis.
- **MDM2**: Mouse double minute 2 homolog, which plays a role in the regulation of the TP53 pathway.
- **CCND1**: Cyclin D1, involved in cell cycle progression.
  
These associations may be context-dependent and can vary based on the biological system or disease model being investigated.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
Research suggests that microRNAs, including MIR487A, may have implications in aging and age-related diseases:

- **Cellular Senescence**: Changes in the expression of microRNAs, including MIR487A, have been linked to cellular senescence, which is a crucial process in aging and age-related pathologies.
- **Cancer**: Alterations in the expression of MIR487A have been observed in various cancers, indicating its potential role in tumorigenesis and cancer progression, contributing to age-related cancer susceptibility.

### 3. Known Drug Interactions
While there may not be direct drugs specifically targeting MIR487A, microRNAs are increasingly recognized as therapeutic targets in gene therapy and cancer treatment. Some classes of drugs that have been studied for their impact on microRNA pathways include:

- **Antisense oligonucleotides**: These can be designed to inhibit the function of specific microRNAs.
- **Sequestering agents**: Drugs that can bind and neutralize microRNA activity.
  
Specific drug interactions may not be strongly documented for MIR487A yet. Studies are ongoing in terms of how modulation of microRNA can be incorporated into drug development.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
MIR487A is involved in several key biological pathways and processes, such as:

- **Cell Cycle Regulation**: Through its interactions affecting genes like CCND1 and TP53, MIR487A can modulate cellular proliferation.
- **Apoptosis**: By influencing the expression of various apoptosis-related genes, the microRNA contributes to cell survival and death processes.
- **Tumorigenesis**: Its modulation of target genes plays a significant role in cancer development and progression.

Additional pathways and biological processes that may involve MIR487A, depending on research context, include:

- **Immune Response**: MIR487A might play a role in regulating inflammatory responses.
- **Development and Differentiation**: There is potential involvement in developmental pathways through its effects on growth factor signaling.

### Conclusion
MIR487A is a critical microRNA involved in various cellular processes, particularly in the regulation of gene expression linked to important growth and survival pathways. Its potential role in aging and diseases, especially cancer, as well as its interactions with drug mechanisms, make it a significant focal point for ongoing research in molecular biology and therapeutic development.