### KLHL8 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: KLHL8  
**Location**: Nucleoplasm  
**Function**: The KLHL8 gene encodes a substrate-specific adapter protein for a BCR (BTB-CUL3-RBX1) E3 ubiquitin ligase complex, which is crucial for mediating the ubiquitination and subsequent degradation of specific target proteins, such as RAPSN (receptor-associated protein of the synapse). This functionality places KLHL8 in the context of protein turnover and quality control, particularly in muscle and neuronal tissues where RAPSN plays roles in synapse integrity and maintenance.

### 1. Associated Genes
While the provided summaries mention RAPSN as a substrate targeted by KLHL8, other genes that have been linked to KLHL8’s functions in various studies include:

- **CUL3**: A component of the CRL3 E3 ubiquitin ligase complex.
- **RBX1**: Another component of the RBX-1 related ubiquitin ligase complex, essential for E3 ligase activity.
- **AKAP5**: Known to interact with KLHL8 in certain signaling contexts.

Additional research may expand this list as new interactions are discovered.

### 2. Aging and Age-related Diseases
Although detailed studies specifically pinpointing KLHL8's role in aging or age-related diseases are scarce, the gene's involvement in ubiquitination suggests potential associations with:

- **Neurodegenerative Disorders**: Impairments in protein degradation processes have been linked to the accumulation of misfolded proteins in conditions like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease. Given KLHL8's role in protein degradation, variants or dysregulation could influence disease development.
- **Muscle Degeneration**: Given its involvement with RAPSN, KLHL8 may also affect neuromuscular junction integrity, which can decline with age, contributing to muscle frailty and related conditions.

### 3. Drug Interactions
As of the current data available, there are no specific drugs or drug classes documented to directly interact with the KLHL8 gene product. However, as KLHL8 is part of larger protein complexes and cellular pathways, any therapies targeting related pathways (e.g., ubiquitin-proteasome system modulators) might indirectly influence KLHL8 activity.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
KLHL8 is implicated in several important biological processes, including:

- **Ubiquitin-Dependent Protein Catabolic Process**: Central to regulating protein levels and removing damaged or misfolded proteins.
- **Protein Ubiquitination**: A key post-translational modification that tags proteins for degradation.
- **Signal Transduction**: With implications in neuronal signaling and muscle maintenance through the degradation of important signaling proteins.

In summary, KLHL8 is a critical component of protein homeostasis mechanisms, with potential influences in neurobiology and muscle physiology, showcasing its relevance in broader biological and medical contexts. Further research may elucidate more specific roles and associated pathologies.