**Gene Overview:**

**Gene Symbol:** SNORD52

SNORD52, also known as small nucleolar RNA, C/D box 52, is part of a class of small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) that are primarily involved in guiding the modification of other RNAs, usually ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs) and certain small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs). These modifications include methylation and pseudouridylation, which are crucial for the maturation and function of rRNA and therefore for protein synthesis.

### 1. Associated Genes:

While specific associations of SNORD52 with other genes are not commonly highlighted in databases like NCBI and UniProt, snoRNAs often work in conjunction with various other snoRNA and ribosomal genes. Additionally, snoRNAs can have regulatory interactions with genes driving cellular mechanisms, including but not limited to:

- **RPL (Ribosomal protein genes):** SnoRNA genes are often located near ribosomal protein genes and are generally involved in the ribosome biogenesis pathway.
- **Other snoRNA genes:** Often, snoRNA genes can interact with one another.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases:

While direct studies specifically linking SNORD52 to aging or age-related diseases might be sparse, snoRNAs in general are known to play roles in cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and the stress response. Misregulation of snoRNAs has been implicated in:

- **Cancer:** Changes in snoRNA expression levels can affect cellular growth and proliferation, which are essential aspects of cancer progression.
- **Neurodegenerative diseases:** Some studies indicate that snoRNA regulation may be disrupted in age-related neurodegenerative diseases, although specific links to SNORD52 may need further research.

### 3. Drug Interactions:

Currently, there are no specific drugs or drug classes universally recognized to directly interact with SNORD52. However, drugs targeting cellular processes such as transcription, translation, RNA metabolism, or those directed towards cancer or age-related diseases may indirectly affect the expression or function of snoRNAs, including SNORD52.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes:

SNORD52 is involved in several critical biological processes:

- **Ribosome Biogenesis:** By guiding the modifications of rRNAs, SNORD52 plays a crucial role in the formation of functional ribosomes.
- **RNA Modification:** SNORD52 is involved in the methylation of specific rRNA molecules, enhancing the stability and function of the ribosomes.
- **Biogenesis of Small Nucleolar RNPs:** As a component of the snoRNPs, SNORD52 contributes to the formation of complexes necessary for RNA modification and processing.
- **Cellular Stress Response:** SnoRNAs may also contribute to the cellular response to stress, although the specific mechanisms involving SNORD52 require more exploration.

Overall, SNORD52 plays an essential role in cellular processes that are fundamental for maintaining cellular health and function, particularly in contexts involving RNA modification and ribosome assembly. More targeted research would be beneficial to fully elucidate its roles in aging and disease implications.