### Gene Overview: ESRP2

**Gene Symbol:** ESRP2  
**Protein Product:** Epithelial Splicing Regulatory Protein 2

**Function:**  
The ESRP2 gene encodes a protein that is crucial for mRNA splicing, specifically regulating the formation of epithelial cell-specific isoforms. A significant aspect of its function is the regulation of the fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2), particularly the epithelial cell-specific isoform FGFR2-IIIb. Furthermore, it influences the splicing of other transcripts such as CD44, CTNND1, and ENAH, genes that undergo changes during epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)—a process vital for development, wound healing, and cancer progression.

### 1. Associated Genes
While the summaries mention FGFR2 along with CD44, CTNND1, and ENAH, additional genes associated with ESRP2 include:
- **SNAI1:** A gene involved in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT).
- **VIM (Vimentin):** An intermediate filament protein often associated with mesenchymal cells.
- **E-cadherin (CDH1):** A gene that plays a crucial role in cell adhesion; its decreased expression is often a hallmark of EMT.
- **NOTCH signaling pathway components:** ESRP2 may also interact with components of this critical signaling pathway.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases  
Research indicates that alternative splicing regulated by ESRP2 can influence age-related processes. Changes in splicing patterns contribute to the pathophysiology of various age-related diseases, including:
- **Cancer:** Abnormal regulation of splicing factors like ESRP2 can promote tumor progression through the regulation of genes involved in EMT and metastasis.
- **Fibrosis:** Altered splicing profiles in fibroblasts can lead to age-related fibroblast dysfunction contributing to tissue fibrosis.
- **Neurodegenerative Diseases:** Changes in splicing may affect neuronal function and contribute to diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

### 3. Drugs and Drug Classes
While there are no specific drugs directly targeting ESRP2, the following classes of drugs may indirectly influence its activity or the pathways it regulates:
- **Antineoplastic agents (chemotherapy):** Certain cancer drugs may impact the splicing machinery, influencing the pathways ESRP2 regulates.
- **HDAC inhibitors:** These agents can alter gene expression and potentially affect splicing factor function and the alternative splicing landscape.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
ESRP2 is involved in multiple cellular pathways and biological processes:
- **Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition (EMT):** A critical process in development and cancer metastasis.
- **mRNA Splicing:** Direct involvement in the splicing mechanism, particularly for transcripts that are essential for epithelial cell functions.
- **Cell Adhesion and Migration:** Through the regulation of genes related to cell-cell adhesion and motility.
- **Developmental Processes:** Implicated in the proper development of epithelial tissues during embryogenesis and organ formation.

### Conclusion
The ESRP2 gene is a significant regulator of splicing events that influence epithelial cell characteristics and pathways involved in development, cancer, and age-related diseases. Its interplay with various genes and pathways underscores its importance in maintaining cellular identity and function. Further research may uncover additional therapeutic targets associated with pathologies influenced by ESRP2.