### CD36 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: CD36  
**Location**: Chromosome 7 (7q11.2)  
**Gene Type**: Protein-coding gene

The CD36 gene encodes a multifunctional glycoprotein that primarily functions as a receptor for various ligands. It plays significant roles in cell adhesion, lipid metabolism, inflammation, and taste perception.

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### 1. Associated Genes

CD36 is associated with various genes, including but not limited to:

- **THBS1 (Thrombospondin 1)**: Interacts with CD36, mediating its antiangiogenic effects.
- **TLR4 (Toll-like receptor 4)** and **TLR6**: CD36 acts as a coreceptor in inflammatory pathways.
- **LRP-1 (Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1)**: May interact with CD36 in lipid metabolism and atherogenesis.
- **FAT/CD36 (Fatty acid translocase)**: Involved in fatty acid transport linked to CD36 functions.
- **ZDHHC5 (Zinc finger DHHC-type palmitoyltrasferase 5)**: Targets CD36 for depalmitoylation and modulates cell surface expression.

### 2. Age-Related Associations

CD36 has been implicated in various aspects of aging and age-related diseases:

- **Metabolic Syndrome**: CD36 plays a role in fatty acid metabolism; its dysfunction can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome, which are often age-related.
- **Atherosclerosis**: CD36's interaction with oxidized LDL links it to the development of atherosclerosis, a common age-related cardiovascular condition.
- **Neurodegenerative Diseases**: The interaction of CD36 with amyloid-beta suggests a possible role in Alzheimer's disease pathology and other age-related cognitive declines.
- **Inflammation**: Chronic inflammation is prevalent in aging; CD36's role in monocyte/macrophage activation may contribute to age-related inflammatory diseases.

### 3. Drug Interactions

CD36 may have interactions with various drug classes, although specific drugs targeting CD36 directly are not well-documented. However, the following contexts can be noted:

- **Anti-inflammatory agents**: Drugs that target inflammation pathways may indirectly influence CD36 activity due to its role in monocyte activation.
- **Lipid-lowering agents**: Drugs like statins could affect processes mediated by CD36 related to lipid metabolism and atherogenesis.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

CD36 is involved in several key biological pathways and processes:

- **Fatty Acid Metabolism**: Assists in the transport and regulation of long-chain fatty acids.
- **Inflammatory Response**: Engaged in TLR signaling pathways leading to cytokine production (e.g., TNF, IL1B).
- **Apoptosis**: Participates in apoptotic processes via interactions with thrombospondins under conditions of elevated free fatty acids.
- **Taste Perception**: Mediates the perception of dietary fats through gustatory receptor pathways.
- **Angiogenesis**: Involved in processes linked to cell adhesion and signaling that influence angiogenesis and vascular integrity.
- **Endocytosis**: Plays a role in receptor-ligand clustering, signal transduction, and endocytosis.

### Conclusion

The CD36 gene is essential for various biological functions, particularly relating to cardiovascular health, lipid metabolism, and the immune response. Its multifaceted roles, especially in aging and inflammation, may provide insights into developing therapeutic strategies for age-related diseases and metabolic disorders. Further research into its interactions and pathways will enhance our understanding of its contributions to health and disease.