### DDX28 Gene Overview

The DDX28 gene is a member of the DEAD box protein family, known for its ATPase and RNA helicase activities, which play significant roles in various cellular processes. This gene is particularly important for mitochondrial function, notably in the assembly of mitochondrial ribosomes, which is crucial for protein synthesis within mitochondria.

#### 1. Associated Genes
While DDX28 itself may not have widely publicized direct associations with specific other genes, there are several biological contexts and pathways in which it may interact with other genes involved in mitochondrial function and RNA metabolism:

- **MTERF Family**: Proteins from the mitochondrial transcription termination factor family may have functional interactions with DDX28 during mitochondrial translation.
- **MRPL and MRPS Genes**: Genes encoding mitochondrial ribosomal proteins (MRPLs and MRPSs) are essential for mitochondrial ribosome assembly and function.
- **Ribosomal Protein Genes**: Interactions with other ribosomal proteins may also be implied as part of its role in mitochondrial ribosome biogenesis.

#### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
There is limited direct literature linking DDX28 specifically to aging or age-related diseases. However, given its key role in mitochondrial function and ribosome assembly, it can be inferred that defects in DDX28 function may contribute to:

- **Mitochondrial Dysfunction**: Impaired mitochondrial function is a hallmark of aging and is implicated in various age-related diseases such as neurodegenerative disorders (e.g., Alzheimer’s and Parkinson's diseases).
- **Cancer**: Altered mitochondrial function, which may involve aberrations in DDX28 activity or expression, has been observed in many cancers, suggesting a possible role in tumorigenesis.
- **Metabolic Disorders**: Decreased efficiency of mitochondrial protein synthesis could contribute to metabolic decline with age.

#### 3. Drug Interactions
Currently, there are no specific drugs or drug classes universally recognized as directly interacting with DDX28. However, compounds that broadly affect mitochondrial function (such as antioxidants) might indirectly impact DDX28 activity or expression:

- **Antioxidants** (e.g., Coenzyme Q10, Resveratrol): These could theoretically alter mitochondrial stress responses, which might affect the function of DDX28.
- **ATP Synthesis Modulators**: Anything affecting ATP supply and demand could influence helicase activity due to DDX28's role as an RNA-dependent ATPase.

#### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
DDX28 is involved in several critical biological processes:

- **Mitochondrial Biogenesis**: Essential for the proper assembly of mitochondrial ribosomes, thus facilitating mitochondrial translation.
- **RNA Processing**: DDX28 is thought to aid in the folding, splicing, or transport of RNA molecules within the mitochondria and the nucleus.
- **Ribosome Assembly**: Plays a role in the assembly of ribosomal subunits from RNA and proteins, heavily influencing protein synthesis.
- **Nuclear and Mitochondrial Transport**: DDX28 undergoes transport between the nucleus and mitochondria, hinting at roles in both nuclear and mitochondrial gene expression regulation.

Overall, DDX28's functions encompass key roles in RNA metabolism and mitochondrial health, linking it to various cellular processes pertinent to growth, development, and potentially aging.