### SF3B4 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** SF3B4  
**Gene ID:** 6423 (NCBI)

The **SF3B4** gene encodes a subunit of the splicing factor 3B protein complex, which is essential for the splicing of pre-mRNA. The protein is involved in the processing of mRNA in eukaryotic cells, facilitating the removal of introns and the ligation of exons. 

### 1. Related Genes

**Associated Genes:**
- **SF3B1:** Another subunit of the splicing factor 3B complex that is critical for the splicing process.
- **SF3B2:** A related protein that also participates in the formation and function of the spliceosomal complex.
- **U2AF2:** Another gene involved in the splicing process that interacts with SF3B complexes.

#### Note:
While these genes are functionally related through their roles in mRNA splicing, specific associations with SF3B4 may be dependent on the structure and function of spliceosomal complexes.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases

Research has shown that abnormalities in pre-mRNA splicing, including those involving components of spliceosomal complexes like SF3B4, may contribute to various age-related diseases, including:
- **Neurodegenerative diseases:** Dysregulated splicing has been implicated in diseases such as Alzheimer's and frontotemporal dementia.
- **Cancer:** Alterations in splicing factors, including mutations in SF3B1, are often noted in various cancers, suggesting that misregulated splicing mechanisms may have implications in tumorigenesis and tumor progression.
- **Genetic disorders:** Variants in spliceosomal components have been linked to disorders like myelodysplastic syndromes, which are more prevalent in the aging population.

### 3. Drug Interactions

Currently, there are no specific drugs or drug classes publicly documented to interact directly with SF3B4 itself. However, given its role in splicing, SF3B4 may be indirectly associated with splicing-modulating therapies, such as:
- **Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs):** These can affect RNA splicing and would theoretically affect pathways involving SF3B4.
- **Splicing inhibitors** (e.g., E7107): These drugs target spliceosomal components and may alter the activity of the complex that includes SF3B4.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

**Biological Processes:**
- **mRNA splicing:** SF3B4 is crucial in the splicing of pre-mRNA, converting it into mature mRNA.
- **Formation of the spliceosomal complex:** SF3B4 plays a role in assembling spliceosomal complexes (specifically complexes A, B, C, and E).

**Pathways:**
- **Gene expression:** SF3B4 participates in the overall regulation of gene expression by ensuring that only correctly processed mRNAs are translated into proteins.
- **RNA processing:** As part of the spliceosomal machinery, it is involved in the modification and maturation of RNA before it exits the nucleus.

### Conclusion

SF3B4 is an important gene that contributes to the fundamental process of pre-mRNA splicing, which is critical for gene expression regulation. Its association with various biological processes and potential implications in aging and disease make it a significant focus of study in both genetics and bioinformatics. Further research may elucidate more specific interactions, especially concerning drugs and additional pathways.