### CHURC1-FNTB Gene Summary

**Gene Symbol:** CHURC1-FNTB  
**Chromosomal Location:** Chromosome 14  
**Function:** The CHURC1-FNTB locus is characterized by read-through transcription between two neighboring genes, CHURC1 and FNTB. This results in the production of a fusion protein that combines elements of both CHURC1 and FNTB functional domains. CHURC1 is linked to cell growth and differentiation, while FNTB encodes farnesyltransferase, an enzyme critical for the post-translational modification of proteins involved in cell signaling.

### 1. Associated Genes

While CHURC1 and FNTB are the primary associated genes at the locus, additional neighboring genes on chromosome 14 that may relate functionally or biologically include:

- **HRAS:** Related to cell proliferation and differentiation.
- **NRAS:** Implicated in signaling pathways involved in cell growth.
- **KRAS:** Another RAS gene involved in signal transduction pathways. It often interacts with farnesylated proteins.

These genes contribute to oncogenic signaling pathways and may be of interest when studying cancer or development.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases

Research into aging and age-related diseases involving the CHURC1-FNTB gene is limited. However, its connection to farnesylation suggests potential implications in age-related pathways, particularly:

- **Cancer:** Dysregulation of farnesyltransferase activity has been linked to cancer progression due to its role in oncogene signaling. As age is a significant risk factor for many cancers, variants or dysregulation of CHURC1-FNTB may be explored in this context.
- **Cardiovascular Diseases:** Proteins subject to farnesylation play roles in vascular health, so changes in expression or function related to aging can have implications on cardiovascular health.

Overall, further studies are needed to clarify the involvement of CHURC1-FNTB in specific aging processes or diseases.

### 3. Drug Interactions

Drugs that may interact with the CHURC1-FNTB gene indirectly (not uniquely) through modulation of farnesyltransferase include:

- **Farnesyltransferase inhibitors (FTIs):** Drugs such as Tipifarnib or Lestaurtinib, which inhibit the farnesylation process, are studied in the context of cancer therapy. These interactions may influence the overall function of proteins derived from the CHURC1-FNTB gene fusion product.

While direct interactions specific to CHURC1-FNTB are less documented, any modulation of farnesylation pathways could impact biological processes involving this gene.

### 4. Involved Pathways and Biological Processes

The CHURC1-FNTB gene fusion likely participates in several key pathways and biological processes, including:

- **Cell Signaling Pathways:** Since farnesyltransferases play crucial roles in post-translational modification, the fusion protein may influence oncogenic signaling pathways like the RAS/MAPK pathway.
- **Cell Proliferation and Differentiation:** Given the roles of its parental genes, involvement in cellular growth dynamics, particularly in oncogenesis, is anticipated.
- **Vascular Development:** Variations in farnesylation can impact signaling pathways related to angiogenesis and vascular health.

These associations indicate that the CHURC1-FNTB gene is significant in biological processes governing cellular homeostasis, signaling, and potentially in pathological states such as cancer. Further research is warranted to elucidate its precise roles and implications in human health and disease.