### PEBP1 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** PEBP1  
**Location:** Human chromosome 1 (1q32.1)  
**HGNC ID:** 8507  
**Entrez Gene ID:** 5130  
**UniProt ID:** P30042

### Gene Function and Characteristics

CEBP1 encodes a member of the phosphatidylethanolamine-binding protein family. Its primary function is to modulate various signaling pathways, such as:

- **MAPK Pathway**: Involvement in cell signaling that regulates cell function, including proliferation and differentiation.
- **NF-kappa B Pathway**: A key regulator in immune response, inflammation, and apoptosis.
- **Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3 (GSK-3) Pathway**: Implicated in multiple cellular processes, including metabolism and cell cycle control.

The protein product undergoes cleavage to yield the **hippocampal cholinergic neurostimulating peptide (HCNP)**, which is vital for neuronal function and development. PEBP1 can also play a role as a metastasis suppressor gene in various human cancers. 

### Associated Genes

In conjunction with its known functions, PEBP1 interacts with several other genes and signaling molecules, including:

- **RAF1 (CRAF)**: A serine/threonine protein kinase involved in the MAPK signal transduction pathway.
- **MEK (Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase)**: Critical for mediating the MAPK signaling pathway.
- **Thrombin**: A serine protease that plays a key role in blood coagulation.
  
Additionally, PEBP1 may have functional interactions with other cancer-associated genes, though specifics may vary based on the context of the study.

### Aging and Age-related Diseases

Research suggests a link between PEBP1 and age-related diseases, particularly regarding its role in the regulation of apoptosis and cellular senescence. 

- **Neurodegenerative Diseases**: Altered expression or function of PEBP1 has been associated with neurodegenerative conditions, potentially linked to its role in HCNP formation.
- **Cancer**: Its role as a metastasis suppressor gene implicates it in processes that can be altered with aging, as the risk of cancer increases.

Elevated or diminished levels of PEBP1 expression have been noted in some age-associated pathologies and malignancies, indicating that it may moderate effects of aging on cellular signaling.

### Drug and Drug Class Interactions

PEBP1 protein has been shown to interact with various drug classes, primarily due to its role in signaling pathways. While specific drug interactions may fluctuate based on research findings, PEBP1's modulation of the following can suggest areas of interest:

- **Antineoplastic agents**: Due to its association with tumor suppression, drugs targeting MAPK pathways may interact with PEBP1 via regulatory mechanisms.
- **Kinase inhibitors**: Inhibitors of MEK/RAF may presumptively modulate the activity of PEBP1 in clinical contexts.
- **Analgesics**: Given its binding to opioids, PEBP1 may have implications in the effectiveness or action of pain medications.

### Pathways and Biological Processes

PEBP1 is implicated in a wide array of biological processes and signaling pathways:

- **Signal Transduction**: Involved in modulating MAPK, NF-kappa B, and GSK-3 signaling pathways, affecting various cellular responses.
- **Protein Binding**: It has a significant functional role in binding phosphorylated lipids, ATP, and opioids.
- **Cellular Processes**: Includes roles in apoptosis, growth regulation, and possibly modulation of inflammation and neuronal function.

### Conclusion 

The PEBP1 gene is a multifaceted component in genetic signaling networks, with implications across cancer biology and potential roles in aging and neurodevelopment. Understanding additional interactions and pathways connected to this gene further underscores its relevance to human health and disease.