### UTP4 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** UTP4  
**Location:** Chromosomal location varies by species, for humans it is located on chromosome 2q37.1.  
**Entrez Gene ID:** 7310  
**Gene Type:** Protein coding gene  

**Function:**  
The UTP4 gene encodes a protein that contains WD40 repeats and is primarily located in the nucleolus. It plays a crucial role in ribosome biogenesis, specifically in the processing of pre-18S ribosomal RNA. The protein is a component of the small subunit (SSU) processome, where it contributes to various RNA processing events including the cleavage and modification of the pre-rRNA. UTP4 is involved in recruiting ribosome biogenesis factors, RNA chaperones, and ribosomal proteins, facilitating the assembly and maturation of the small ribosomal subunit.

### Associated Genes

While the UTP4 gene itself may not directly indicate associations with specific additional genes, given its role in ribosome biogenesis, multiple ribosomal proteins and biogenesis factors interact with it during the processing of pre-rRNA. Some potentially associated genes include:

- **RPS (Ribosomal Protein S Family)**: Various members contribute to the assembly of ribosomes.
- **NOL (Nucleolar Protein Family)**: Involved in ribosome biogenesis.
- **RNA Polymerase II genes**: Since UTP4 is required for optimal pre-rRNA transcription.

### Aging and Age-Related Diseases

1. **Impact on Aging**: While there is limited direct information connecting UTP4 specifically to aging, ribosomal biogenesis is heavily implicated in cellular aging, as the efficiency of ribosome function declines with age, potentially leading to increased cellular stress and reduced protein synthesis capacity.
  
2. **Age-Related Diseases**: Mutations in UTP4 are specifically linked to North American Indian childhood cirrhosis, a severe liver condition characterized by intrahepatic cholestasis. This gene's role in nucleolar function and ribosome biogenesis may suggest broader implications in age-related liver dysfunctions and metabolic disorders, although research is still emerging in these areas.

### Drug Interactions

Currently, specific drugs or drug classes directly interacting with the UTP4 gene have not been extensively documented in available literature. However, given that UTP4 is involved in the fundamental process of ribosome assembly and function, certain **anticancer agents** that inhibit protein synthesis or target ribosome biogenesis could indirectly affect UTP4-related pathways. Additionally, compounds that affect **nucleolar function or ribosome assembly** broadly may also interact with pathways involving UTP4.

### Biological Pathways and Processes

UTP4 is involved in several key biological processes, including:

- **Ribosome Biogenesis**: Essential for the formation of ribosomal subunits.
- **Pre-rRNA Processing**: Critical for the maturation of pre-18S rRNA.
- **Nucleolar Organization**: Plays a role in maintaining nucleolar structure.
- **RNA Regulation**: May have functions in transcription regulation related to ribosome biogenesis.

### Summary

The UTP4 gene is integral to ribosome biogenesis and pre-rRNA processing, with significant implications for liver health and potential indirect links to aging and age-related diseases. While direct drug interactions are not well established, its involvement in fundamental cellular processes may intersect with various therapeutic interventions aimed at cellular homeostasis and ribosomal function. Further research into its roles may reveal more about its implications for health across the lifespan.