### INVS Gene Overview:

**Gene Symbol and Function:**  
The INVS gene (Inversin) encodes a protein composed of multiple ankyrin domains and two IQ calmodulin-binding domains. It plays crucial roles in renal tubular development, function, and the establishment of the left-right axis during embryonic development. INVS is involved in signaling pathways and cellular processes, particularly those related to cilia function and Wnt signaling.

### 1. Associated Genes:
While the summaries mention interactions with nephrocystin (NPHP1) and involvement with NPHP4 and RPGRIP1L/NPHP8 in apical junction organization, other genes known to be associated with or related to INVS include:

- **NPHP3**: Another nephronophthisis-associated gene.
- **WNT signaling pathway genes**: Although not specifically named, general components of Wnt signaling pathways, such as WNT1 and β-catenin, are relevant due to INVS's role in inhibiting canonical Wnt signaling.
- **DVL1 (Disheveled segment polarity protein 1)**: A direct interaction partner that plays a role in the Wnt signaling pathway.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases:
Mutations in the INVS gene are primarily associated with nephronophthisis type 2, a genetic kidney disease characterized by cyst formation and kidney failure. Such conditions can lead to progressive renal impairment, particularly affecting children and young adults. The relevance of INVS in ciliary function suggests potential interactions with other age-related diseases linked to ciliary dysfunction, such as:

- **Polycystic kidney disease (PKD)**: Ciliary dysfunction is often related to cyst formation in kidneys.
- **Cardiovascular diseases**: As left-right axis determination is critical during development, aberrations could lead to congenital heart defects which have lasting impacts on aging and health.

### 3. Known Drug Interactions:
As of October 2023, there are no specific drugs or drug classes directly linked to INVS interaction in pharmacological databases. However, given its role in the Wnt signaling pathway, agents that modulate Wnt signaling (such as Wnt inhibitors or activators) might have potential interactions. Research is ongoing regarding therapeutic approaches for conditions associated with INVS mutations.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes:
INVS is closely involved in several key pathways and biological processes:

- **Wnt signaling pathways**: In particular, it acts as an antagonist to canonical Wnt signaling, promoting renal tubular development and opposing transcriptional repression.
- **Cilia formation and function**: While it does not seem strictly necessary for ciliogenesis, INVS contributes to primary cilia functions that are crucial in left-right axis determination.
- **Regulation of cell junctions**: It collaborates with other proteins to organize apical junctions in epithelial cells, particularly in the kidney.
- **Embryonic development**: Involvement in determining left-right asymmetry during embryogenesis.

These processes emphasize INVS's importance in developmental biology, renal health, and potential implications in age-related conditions or diseases of the kidneys and other systems influenced by ciliary function.