### ANLN Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: ANLN  
**Full Name**: Anillin, Actin Binding Protein  

**Protein Function**: The ANLN gene encodes an actin-binding protein that is essential for several cellular processes including cytokinesis, cell growth, and migration. ANLN is particularly significant in maintaining the structural integrity of the cleavage furrow during cell division and plays a role in the assembly of membrane blebs during cell cycle phases such as metaphase and anaphase. The protein is believed to regulate actin cytoskeletal dynamics, especially in podocytes, which are crucial components of the renal glomerulus.

### 1. Associated Genes:
While the NCBI and UniProt summaries do not specify other genes, research literature suggests that ANLN may be functionally associated with various genes involved in cytoskeletal dynamics and cellular processes. Examples include:

- **ACTB (Beta-Actin)**: Involved in cellular structure and motility, often interacting with actin-binding proteins.
- **MYH9 (Non-Muscle Myosin Heavy Chain 9)**: Plays a role in cytokinesis and cell migration, potentially cooperating with ANLN.
- **CDK1 (Cyclin-dependent kinase 1)**: Involved in cell cycle regulation, potentially affecting ANLN activity during mitosis.
- **RHOA (Ras Homolog Family Member A)**: A small GTPase implicated in regulating the actin cytoskeleton.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases:
Research suggests that aberrations in cellular processes involving ANLN, such as disrupted cytokinesis or cell migration, might contribute to age-related diseases. Specifically:

- **Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS)**: ANLN mutations are associated with FSGS 8, indicating its relevance in renal aging and resulting dysfunctions. This disease can progress to kidney failure, especially in older populations.
- **Tumorigenesis**: ANLN has been studied in various cancers, where dysregulation might also be linked with age-related changes in cellular proliferation and migration.

### 3. Drug Interactions:
Currently, there is no extensive characterization of specific drugs directly targeting ANLN. However, certain classes of therapeutics might influence pathways involving ANLN through their effects on the actin cytoskeleton, such as:

- **Actin Polymerization Inhibitors**: Drugs that inhibit actin dynamics, such as cytochalasins, might indirectly influence ANLN's function in cell motility and division.
- **Chemotherapy Agents**: Compounds that target mitotic processes may have downstream effects on ANLN, given its role in cytokinesis.

### 4. Biological Pathways and Processes:
ANLN is implicated in several key biological processes:

- **Cytokinesis**: ANLN is critically involved in the division of cells, particularly in the final stages of mitosis.
- **Modulation of Actin Cytoskeleton**: Crucial for directing cell shape, migration, and cellular integrity during various physiological events.
- **Cell Migration**: Particularly in podocytes, suggesting a role in kidney function and diseases.
- **Cell Cycle Regulation**: Interactions with various proteins in the cell cycle suggesting a broader role in cell proliferation.

### Summary:
The ANLN gene plays a multifaceted role in cellular processes critical for maintaining tissue integrity and functionality, particularly in the kidneys. Its involvement in processes linked to aging and disease underscores the importance of understanding its interactions and mechanisms in both normal physiology and pathogenesis.