### PIK3R2 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** PIK3R2  
**Location:** Chromosome 19 (19q13.1)  
**Function:** Regulatory subunit of phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K), which is involved in various signaling pathways that govern cell growth, survival, proliferation, and motility.

#### 1. Associated Genes
PIK3R2 is associated with several genes involved in various pathways:

- **AKT1**: As noted, AKT1 is recruited by phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PIP3) for signaling cascades.
- **PDPK1**: Another important kinase that works with PIK3R2 in signaling.
- **PTEN**: A tumor suppressor gene that counteracts PI3K signaling.
- **MTOR**: PIK3R2 may be involved in pathways related to cell growth and metabolism, which includes the mTOR signaling pathway.
- **INSR**: Insulin receptor, significant in glucose homeostasis and directly related to PIK3R2's function in insulin signaling.

#### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
PIK3R2 has been implicated in several age-related aspects:

- **Aging and Cellular Senescence**: Dysregulation of PI3K signaling pathways can result in cellular senescence, impacting tissue function during aging.
- **Metabolic Disorders**: PIK3R2 is associated with insulin signaling, therefore contributing to age-related metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, and glucose intolerance.
- **Cancer**: Given the role of PI3K pathways in cell survival and growth, mutations or dysregulation in PIK3R2 expression can contribute to tumorigenesis, making it relevant in various age-related cancers.

#### 3. Drug Interactions
Several drugs and drug classes interact with the PI3K pathway, which includes PIK3R2:

- **PI3K Inhibitors**: Such as idelalisib and copanlisib, used in cancer therapy to inhibit aberrant PI3K signaling.
- **AKT Inhibitors**: Drugs targeting AKT, such as MK-2206, which interact downstream of PIK3R2.
- **Metformin**: An antidiabetic medication may have effects on the PI3K pathway, particularly in the context of insulin resistance.
- **Glucocorticoids**: Involved in the modulation of genes related to metabolism and inflammation, potentially interacting with PI3K signaling.

#### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
PIK3R2 is involved in several key signaling pathways and biological processes:

- **PI3K-Akt Signaling Pathway**: Central to various roles in cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, and metabolism.
- **Insulin Signaling Pathway**: Critical for glucose homeostasis and metabolic regulation.
- **Autophagy**: Indirect regulation of autophagic processes, which are vital for cellular homeostasis.
- **Regulation of Gene Expression**: Particularly influenced by metabolic status and stress, impacting processes related to inflammation and cell survival.
- **Cell Growth and Proliferation**: By modulating various second messengers and interactions with growth factors, including their receptors.

### Summary
The PIK3R2 gene plays a crucial role in the regulation of key signaling pathways that affect many biological processes, particularly those related to growth, metabolism, and survival. Its implications in aging, metabolic disorders, and cancer point to its importance in both health and disease, making it a significant focus of research in bioinformatics, genetics, and pharmacology.