### TAF1C Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: TAF1C  
**Gene Description**: The TAF1C gene encodes a component of the SL1 (also called TIF-IB) transcription factor complex that is essential for initiating transcription by RNA polymerase I (Pol I). The SL1 complex consists of the TATA-binding protein (TBP) and three TBP-associated factors (TAFs), with TAF1C being the largest among them. TAF1C plays a crucial role in the assembly of the preinitiation complex (PIC) at the ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene promoters and stabilizes associated transcription factors. 

### 1. Associated Genes
While specific associative genes are not extensively detailed in the provided summaries, the TAF1C gene is part of a broader transcription network involved in Pol I-mediated transcription. Other genes that are known to interact with transcription factors, regulators, and genes involved in RNA polymerase I transcription might include:
- **UBTF**: Nucleolar transcription factor 1, which is involved in stabilizing SL1/TIF-IB on rDNA.
- **RRN3**: A gene that interacts with SL1/TIF-IB to recruit RNA polymerase I to the rRNA gene promoter.
- Members of the **TFIID** complex: TBP-associated factors that compete with SL1 for TBP association.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
While specific studies directly linking TAF1C to aging and age-related diseases may be limited, there is some relevance given the gene's role in ribosomal RNA transcription:
- **Stem Cell Aging**: Dysregulation of rRNA transcription can affect stem cell function and contribute to the aging process. Increased expression of rRNA might be seen in cancer, which can be associated with age, suggesting that TAF1C’s activity may impact age-related cell proliferation and senescence.
- **Neurodegenerative Diseases**: As rRNA synthesis is critical for maintaining cellular function, alterations in the function of TAF1C could theoretically contribute to neurodegenerative processes given the heightened demands for protein synthesis in neural cells.
  
### 3. Drug Interactions
Currently, there are no specific drugs directly targeting TAF1C listed in major pharmacological databases. However, the activity of TAF1C may be indirectly influenced by:
- **General transcription factor inhibitors** or modulators: These may affect the activity of polymerases, including RNA polymerase I and their associated factors.
- **Epigenetic modulators**: Such as HDAC inhibitors, which can affect transcription factor assembly and chromatin structure, potentially indirectly influencing TAF1C activity.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
TAF1C is involved in several important biological processes, including:
- **Transcription**: Specifically, initiation of transcription by RNA polymerase I at rRNA promoters.
- **Regulation of gene expression**: By forming part of the transcription complex that regulates RNA polymerase I activity and the accessibility of gene promoters.
- **Ribosome biogenesis**: Since rRNA is a key component of ribosomes, TAF1C indirectly affects protein synthesis and cellular growth.
- **Nucleotide and cell cycle regulation**: Through its interactions and functions during transcription regulation, TAF1C could participate in broader cellular regulatory mechanisms.

Overall, the TAF1C gene plays a vital role in the transcriptional machinery for rRNA genes, affecting ribosome biosynthesis and potentially intersecting with various aspects of cell growth, aging, and disease processes. Further exploration of its connections may shed light on its roles in health and disease.