### GOPC Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** GOPC  
**Function:** The GOPC gene encodes a protein involved in intracellular protein trafficking, degradation, and the modulation of ion channel expression. It has a PDZ (Post-synaptic density protein-95, Discs large, and Zonula occludens-1) domain, allowing it to interact with multiple partners to facilitate signaling and trafficking processes.

### 1. Associated Genes
GOPC is known to interact with several other genes, including but not limited to:
- **CFTR (Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator):** Pertinent for its role in chloride ion transport; GOPC modulates its trafficking to the cell surface.
- **MARCHF2 (Membrane-Associated RING-CH Protein 2):** Works with GOPC for the ubiquitination and degradation of CFTR.
- **ADR1B (Adrenoceptor Beta 1):** Participates in intracellular trafficking regulated by GOPC.
- **ASIC3 (Acid-Sensing Ion Channel 3):** Involved in the modulation of acid-induced currents.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
Though there is limited direct research tying the GOPC gene specifically to cancer or aging, there are implications for its roles in cellular degradation and trafficking that may influence age-related conditions. Dysfunction in protein trafficking and degradation mechanisms are often associated with aging and age-related diseases, such as neurodegeneration and cardiac dysfunction. Furthermore, improper CFTR channel regulation is implicated in cystic fibrosis and other pulmonary diseases, which can have age-related aspects.

### 3. Drug Interactions
While specific drugs directly targeting the GOPC gene do not seem to be established, its associated protein interactions suggest possible indirect associations with classes of drugs:
- **CFTR Modulators:** Medications like Ivacaftor and Lumacaftor that target CFTR function can potentially interact with GOPC-related pathways, as the gene is involved in the trafficking of this protein.
- **Ion Channel Modulators:** Drugs that influence ASIC3 or other ion channels may indirectly affect GOPC functions, particularly in pain and signaling pathways.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
GOPC is involved in various biological processes, including:
- **Intracellular Trafficking:** The protein plays a role in the endocytosis and recycling of proteins at the Golgi apparatus, critical for maintaining cellular homeostasis.
- **Ubiquitination and Degradation:** GOPC mediates the ubiquitination of membrane proteins, particularly CFTR, leading to their lysosomal degradation.
- **Ion Channel Regulation:** It is vital for the modulation of chloride ion currents and acid-sensing channels.
- **Autophagy:** GOPC may have a role in the autophagy process, which is essential for cellular housekeeping and survival under stress conditions.
- **Protein-Protein Interactions:** Through its PDZ domain, GOPC can bind and interact with various signaling molecules, affecting multiple signaling pathways.

Overall, GOPC is a crucial gene with a significant impact on cellular signaling and protein management, with potential implications in disease mechanisms and lifespan-associated cellular processes. Further research may illuminate its full scope of impact on both health and disease.