### PTGES3 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** PTGES3  
**Location:** Chromosome 9 (9q34.2)  
**Protein:** Prostaglandin E synthase 3 (also called Cytosolic Prostaglandin E Synthase)

#### 1. Associated Genes
While the provided summaries focus mainly on the function of the PTGES3 gene itself, studies have shown that PTGES3 is associated with various other genes involved in prostaglandin signaling and other cell signaling pathways, including:
- **HSP90AA1** (Heat shock protein 90 alpha, class A member 1): As a co-chaperone, PTGES3 interacts with HSP90AA1, which is crucial for proper protein folding and function.
- **EGLN1** (Egl nine homolog 1): This gene encodes an enzyme involved in the hydroxylation of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs), and PTGES3 influences EGLN1’s function.
- **COX-2 (PTGS2)**: As a key enzyme in prostaglandin biosynthesis, PTGES3 may interact indirectly with COX-2, particularly in pathways concerning inflammation and pain.

#### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
- **Inflammation and Aging:** Prostaglandins, including PGE2, are known to play a role in inflammation, which is increasingly recognized as a factor in the aging process. Dysregulation of inflammatory responses can contribute to age-related diseases such as arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer.
- **Cancer:** Studies have linked PTGES3 and PGE2 to tumor progression and metastasis, notably in colorectal cancer, where aberrations in prostaglandin signaling can affect tumor microenvironments and promote chronic inflammation.
- **Metabolic Disorders:** Alterations in PGE2 levels, mediated by PTGES3, have implications in metabolic syndrome and associated diseases such as diabetes.

#### 3. Drug Interactions
While specific drug interactions for PTGES3 itself may not be deeply characterized, the biological pathway in which it operates suggests interactions with:
- **Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs):** Since these drugs often target cyclooxygenases (like COX-2) that produce precursors for PGE2, they may indirectly affect PTGES3 activity and function.
- **Corticosteroids:** These anti-inflammatory agents may modulate prostaglandin synthesis pathways where PTGES3 is involved.
- **HSP90 Inhibitors:** Compounds targeting heat shock proteins could affect PTGES3's role as a co-chaperone.

#### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
PTGES3 is involved in several key biological pathways, including:
- **Prostaglandin Metabolism:** Catalyzes the conversion of PGH2 to PGE2, a key inflammatory mediator.
- **HIF-1 Alpha Signaling:** PTGES3 promotes interaction with EGLN1, facilitating hydroxylation of HIF proteins, which are critical for cellular responses to hypoxia.
- **Transcription Regulation:** Functions as a molecular chaperone, disrupting transcriptional regulatory complexes, particularly in hormone response elements.
- **Inflammatory Response:** Actively participates in the regulation of the inflammatory response through prostaglandin synthesis and signaling pathways.

By participating in these pathways, PTGES3 has implications for various physiological processes, including inflammation control, cellular stress responses, and metabolic regulation. It is crucial for understanding the interplay between prostaglandin signaling and health during aging and in pathological conditions.