### SLC13A5 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** SLC13A5  
**Function:** SLC13A5 encodes a sodium-dependent citrate cotransporter, playing a pivotal role in metabolic processes, particularly those involving citrate. It imports citrate into cells, critical for energy production (Krebs cycle), lipid biosynthesis, and glucose metabolism.

### 1. Associated Genes
The SLC13A5 gene has been implicated in interactions with other genes that are involved in metabolic pathways or neurological functions. Some associated genes include:

- **SLC2A1**: Glucose transporter protein, involved in glucose transport across plasma membranes.
- **SLC16A1**: Monocarboxylate transporter that may influence energy metabolism by transporting lactate or pyruvate.
- **SLC25A1**: Mitochondrial citrate transporter, facilitating citrate transport into mitochondria.
- **GLS**: Glutaminase, which converts glutamine to glutamate and is involved in metabolism and signaling.
  
These genes collectively contribute to transporting key metabolites that interact with pathways where SLC13A5 is involved.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
The role of SLC13A5 in metabolic regulation suggests potential links to aging and age-related diseases. While direct associations with specific aging processes are not well-established, metabolic dysregulation related to citrate transport could influence the following:

- **Neurodegenerative Diseases**: As SLC13A5 regulates citrate levels in the brain, dysregulation may impact neuronal metabolism and contribute to conditions such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's diseases.
- **Metabolic Disorders**: Altered citrate metabolism could impact conditions like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, which have age-related correlations.

### 3. Drug Interactions
While there are no specific drugs that directly target the SLC13A5 transporter, there are several classes of drugs that may affect its function indirectly:

- **Sodium channel blockers**: These could potentially affect sodium-dependent transport processes, including SLC13A5.
- **Metabolic modulators**: Agents influencing metabolic pathways may indirectly modulate the activity of SLC13A5 by altering the substrate levels (citrate and others).
- **Epilepsy medications**: Given the role of SLC13A5 mutations in early infantile epileptic encephalopathy, some common anti-epileptic drugs may be of clinical interest but do not target SLC13A5 specifically.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
SLC13A5 is involved in several important biological processes and metabolic pathways, including:

- **Citrate Metabolism**: Central role in the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle), where citrate is converted to isocitrate and other intermediates essential for ATP production.
- **Fatty Acid Metabolism**: Contributes to the synthesis of fatty acids from acetyl-CoA derived from citrate.
- **Cholesterol Biosynthesis**: Citrate is a precursor for the synthesis of cholesterol, making SLC13A5 integral in lipid metabolism.
- **Gluconeogenesis**: Plays a role in producing glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, which helps in maintaining glucose homeostasis.
- **Neuronal Metabolism**: Regulation of citrate levels in the brain may impact neurotransmitter production and neuronal health.

### Conclusion
The SLC13A5 gene is crucial for the transport of citrate across cellular membranes, directly influencing metabolic processes and neurological health. Its mutations lead to severe neurological disorders, while its links to aging and potential drug interactions highlight its importance in research related to metabolism and age-related diseases. Understanding the full spectrum of its biological role may open avenues for targeted therapies in metabolic and neurological disorders.