### ME1 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** ME1  
**Full Name:** Malic enzyme 1

**Overview:**  
The ME1 gene encodes a cytosolic, NADP-dependent malic enzyme that plays a crucial role in metabolic processes, specifically through the oxidative decarboxylation of malate to pyruvate, generating NADPH in the process. This NADPH is vital for anabolic reactions, including fatty acid biosynthesis. By linking glycolysis and the citric acid cycle, ME1 serves as an important metabolic node.

### Other Associated Genes

The ME1 gene may not be directly associated with a broad set of genes; however, it works closely with several metabolic and regulatory networks. Genes that often exhibit interactions either functionally or through metabolic pathways may include:

- **PC (Pyruvate Carboxylase):** Participates in gluconeogenesis and links to the synthesis of oxaloacetate from pyruvate.
- **FASN (Fatty Acid Synthase):** Involved in fatty acid synthesis, which is influenced by the availability of NADPH generated by ME1.
- **IDH (Isocitrate Dehydrogenase):** Part of the citric acid cycle, interacts with metabolic pathways where ME1 is active.

### Age-Related Details

Research indicates that the activity and expression of ME1 can be influenced by factors associated with aging, such as:

- **Metabolic Regulation:** Alterations in the expression of ME1 may correlate with age-related changes in metabolic pathways, impacting lipid metabolism and energy homeostasis.
- **Oxidative Stress:** The NADPH produced by ME1 plays a role in the cellular antioxidant defense system, which becomes increasingly important in aging and age-related diseases.
- **Potential Association with Age-Related Diseases:** Dysregulation of fatty acid metabolism, influenced by ME1, has been implicated in conditions such as obesity and diabetes, which have increasing prevalence in aging populations.

### Drug Interactions

While specific drugs directly targeting ME1 are not well established, its role in metabolic processes implicates potential interactions with broad classes of drugs:

- **Antidiabetic drugs:** Medications targeting glucose and lipid metabolism may indirectly influence ME1 activity or expression.
- **NADPH Modulators:** While no specific drugs are identified, compounds influencing the NADP+/NADPH ratio may interact indirectly with the functionalities of ME1.

### Pathways and Biological Processes

ME1 is involved in a variety of biological pathways and processes, including:

1. **Fatty Acid Metabolism:** Essential for the supply of NADPH necessary for fatty acid synthesis.
2. **Citrate Cycle (TCA Cycle):** Links glycolytic and citric acid cycles through its reversible reactions.
3. **Gluconeogenesis:** Provides intermediate substrates for gluconeogenic pathways via its product, pyruvate.
4. **NADPH Generation:** Contributes to the cellular redox state and overall metabolic balance, influencing processes such as lipid synthesis, and oxidative stress response.

### Conclusion

The ME1 gene is crucial to cellular metabolism, particularly concerning fatty acid synthesis through its generation of NADPH. Its regulatory mechanisms and interactions with other metabolic pathways underscore its importance in general health and its potential implications in aging and various metabolic disorders. While specific drugs targeting ME1 are not clearly defined, its metabolic role aligns it with numerous therapeutic strategies focused on metabolic conditions.