### CDH24 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** CDH24  
**Location:** Human chromosome 16  
**Function:** CDH24, or Cadherin-24, is a member of the cadherin superfamily of proteins, which play critical roles in cell-cell adhesion. This gene encodes a protein that binds to alpha-catenin, beta-catenin, and delta-catenin, facilitating cell junction integrity and contributing to processes such as tissue organization and morphogenesis.

#### 1. Associated Genes
Though the summaries do not specify associated genes, cadherins typically interrelate through cellular signaling and adhesion pathways. Other genes related to cadherin functions include:
- **CDH1:** E-cadherin, known for its role in epithelial cell adhesion.
- **CDH2:** N-cadherin, associated with neural development and angiogenesis.
- **CTNNA1:** Encodes alpha-catenin, which associates with cadherins.
- **CTNNB1:** Beta-catenin, involved in the Wnt signaling pathway and cell adhesion.

Additionally, various signaling pathways might involve genes such as **APC**, **GSK3B**, and **LEF1** through their interactions with beta-catenin.

#### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
While specific research linking CDH24 to aging is limited, cadherin-mediated adhesion is critical in maintaining tissue integrity and function. Disruption in cadherin expression or function is implicated in processes associated with aging, such as:
- **Cellular Senescence:** Changes in cell adhesion properties can lead to increased senescence, impacting tissue regeneration and repair.
- **Age-Related Diseases:** Altered cadherin function is implicated in cancer progression and metastasis, and variations in cadherin expression can influence neurodegenerative diseases.
- **Cardiovascular Aging:** Changes in endothelial cadherin function and expression may be related to age-related cardiovascular changes.

#### 3. Drug Interactions
There is currently no specific drug or drug class known to interact directly with CDH24. However, cadherins can be targeted in cancer therapies and regenerative medicine. Some potential drug classes may indirectly influence cadherin activity through:
- **Targeted Therapies:** Drugs that inhibit pathways affecting cell adhesion, particularly in cancer that exploits cadherin downregulation.
- **Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors (HDAC inhibitors):** These have been shown to upregulate cadherin expression including potentially that of CDH24 in certain contexts.

#### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
CDH24 is involved in several key biological processes and pathways:
- **Cell Adhesion:** Central to maintaining tissue architecture and facilitating communication between cells.
- **Embryonic Development:** Participates in processes such as gastrulation and organ development through its adhesion properties.
- **Wnt Signaling Pathway:** Involved in regulating beta-catenin dynamics, which is critical for growth and development.
- **Tight Junction Formation:** Contributes to the assembly and maintenance of tight junctions in epithelial tissue.
- **Cell Migration:** Implicated in cellular behaviors required for development and tissue repair.

In summary, the CDH24 gene plays a pivotal role in cellular adhesion and signaling, which are critical for maintaining tissue integrity and function. Its implications in aging and associated diseases underscore its potential importance in developmental and pathological contexts. Further research is needed to elucidate specific drug interactions and the full spectrum of genes associated with its function.