### CKS2 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** CKS2  
**Full Name:** Cyclin-dependent kinase subunit 2

**Function:**  
The CKS2 gene encodes a protein that interacts with cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs), enhancing their activity and playing a crucial role in cell cycle regulation. CKS2 is integral for the proper phosphorylation of target proteins, which is important for various cellular processes including progression through the cell cycle.

### 1. Associated Genes
CKS2 is known to interact with several other genes, particularly those involved in the regulation of the cell cycle and signaling pathways. Some notable associated genes include:

- **CDK1**: Cyclin-dependent kinase 1, which is a critical regulator of the G2/M transition in the cell cycle.
- **CDK2**: Cyclin-dependent kinase 2, important in the G1/S transition and S phase progression.
- **CCNA2**: Cyclin A2, which forms a complex with CDK2 and is involved in regulating cell cycle progression.
- **CCNB1**: Cyclin B1, which forms a complex with CDK1 and is essential for the G2/M transition.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
While specific aging-related functions of CKS2 are not extensively studied, its role in cell cycle regulation suggests potential implications in aging and age-related diseases such as cancer. Dysregulation of the cell cycle is a hallmark of many cancers, and overexpression of CKS2 has been observed in various tumor types, leading to increased proliferation of cancer cells. A connection between CKS2 expression and cellular senescence may also exist, with implications for age-related decline in tissue regeneration capacity.

### 3. Drug Interactions
CKS2 is not directly targeted by any specific drugs, but it may interact with drugs that target CDKs, which play fundamental roles in cell cycle progression. Some of these include:

- **CDK inhibitors**: Such as palbociclib, ribociclib, and abemaciclib, which inhibit cell proliferation in cancer cells by targeting CDK4/6 pathways.
- **Chemotherapeutic agents**: Broadly, drugs that interfere with the cell cycle might indirectly impact pathways involving CKS2.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
CKS2 is involved in several key biological processes and pathways, including:

- **Cell Cycle Regulation**: CKS2 is essential for the function of CDKs, modulating cell cycle checkpoints, particularly during G1/S and G2/M transitions.
- **DNA Repair**: CKS2 is suggested to play a role in DNA repair mechanisms that are crucial during cell division.
- **Regulation of Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Activity**: CKS2 is crucial for the activation of CDKs, affecting their role in mitosis and cell division.

### Conclusion
The CKS2 gene is an important player in cell cycle regulation through its association with cyclin-dependent kinases. Its roles in various biological processes and potential implications in aging and cancer highlight its significance in cellular biology. Further research could elucidate more specific associations with aging and potential therapeutic targets in age-related diseases.