### SNORD72 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: SNORD72  
**Type**: Non-coding RNA (small nucleolar RNA or snoRNA)  
**Location**: Chromosome 6

#### Function and Characteristics
SNORD72 is a member of the C/D box small nucleolar RNA (snoRNA) family. It primarily functions in the nucleolus and is involved in the post-transcriptional modification of rRNA, facilitating the methylation of specific ribose moieties. The snoRNA acts as a guide molecule during these modifications, which are crucial for the maturation of ribosomal RNA and hence for ribosome biogenesis.

### 1. Associated Genes
The SNORD72 gene has been associated or studied alongside other genes, primarily those involved in rRNA processing and modification. Some of these include:
- **NOLC1** - a gene involved in nucleolar organization and ribosome synthesis.
- **RPS23** - a gene coding for ribosomal protein S23, which plays a structural role in the ribosome.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
While specific studies directly linking SNORD72 to aging or age-related diseases are limited, snoRNAs have been implicated in the regulation of ribosome biogenesis, which is a process that tends to become dysregulated with age. The alteration in ribosomal function and decreased efficiency in protein translation are often observed in aging and various age-related diseases.

In particular, some research has suggested a role for snoRNAs in cancer development, where they might influence cellular proliferation and differentiation—two processes that are significantly affected by aging and the onset of age-related pathologies.

### 3. Drug Interactions
As of October 2023, there are no specific drugs or drug classes that have been directly linked to interactions with SNORD72. However, general therapeutic approaches targeting snoRNA pathways or related RNA modification processes may intersect with SNORD72's functions. Cancer therapies and drugs that modulate gene expression or RNA processing might indirectly affect snoRNA activity as part of a broader treatment strategy, but detailed interactions would need further exploration.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
SNORD72 is involved in several critical biological processes, particularly those linked to:
- **Ribosome Biogenesis**: SNORD72 is instrumental in the processing and modification of rRNA, contributing to the formation of functional ribosomes.
- **Methylation**: It is involved in the site-specific 2'-O-methylation of rRNA, an essential aspect of rRNA maturation.
- **Nucleolar Stress Response**: The gene can impact responses related to nucleolar stress, which can influence cell growth and proliferation.

While much focus is placed on its snoRNA functions, ongoing research may unveil additional pathways and processes influenced by SNORD72, particularly as studies on non-coding RNAs continue to evolve.

---
This summary integrates current understanding while adding context regarding aging associations and broader biological roles. If you need more specific studies or recent findings, let me know!