### EIF2B4 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** EIF2B4  
**Location:** Chromosome 3  
**Function:** The EIF2B4 gene encodes the delta subunit of eukaryotic initiation factor 2B (EIF2B), which plays a crucial role in the initiation of protein synthesis by facilitating the exchange of GDP for GTP on eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (eIF2). This process is essential for the recycling and activation of eIF2, enabling the onset of translation.

### 1. Associated Genes
While the summaries provided do not list specific genes associated with EIF2B4, its role in the EIF2B complex implies interactions with other EIF2B subunits: namely, **EIF2B1, EIF2B2, EIF2B3, and EIF2B5**. Together, they form the complete EIF2B holoenzyme.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Disease Associations
Research surrounding laukoencephalopathy with vanishing white matter (VWM) — a disorder linked to EIF2B4 — indicates associations with altered mechanisms of protein synthesis, cellular stress response, and neurodegeneration. However, direct connections between EIF2B4 and aging processes are not extensively characterized. Mutations in EIF2B4 may accelerate neurodegenerative changes, which could have implications for age-related cognitive decline and increase susceptibility to age-associated diseases of the nervous system.

### 3. Drug Interactions
There are no specific drugs or drug classes mentioned that directly interact with the EIF2B4 gene. Future research may identify therapeutic agents that can modulate EIF2B or its subunits to ameliorate disease states linked to its dysfunction.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
EIF2B4 is involved in several significant biological pathways, including:

- **Protein Synthesis:** The initiation phase, where eIF2B acts as a GTP exchange factor essential for the assembly of the ribosome for protein translation.
- **Stress Granule Formation:** EIF2B is involved in the stress response, particularly during conditions that induce cellular stress (e.g., oxidative stress, nutrient deprivation), by modulating the translation of specific mRNAs.
- **Cellular Response to Environmental Stress:** Activates processes that enable cells to cope with varying stresses, impacting survival and function.
  
Biological processes involving EIF2B4 include:

- **Translation:** The process of protein synthesis from amino acids based on mRNA sequences.
- **Regulation of Gene Expression:** Modifying the translation rates of specific mRNAs, influencing gene expression levels under different physiological conditions, such as during stress or developmental changes.

In summary, the EIF2B4 gene is a critical component of the eukaryotic translation initiation apparatus and has implications in the pathology of neurodegenerative disorders, with potential insights into aging-related studies pending further research.