**AKAP17A Gene Overview**

**Gene Symbol:** AKAP17A  
**Location:** Human chromosome 22  
**Function:** The AKAP17A gene encodes a protein that acts as an anchoring protein for protein kinase A (PKA). This protein is involved in the splicing of mRNA precursors via its participation in the spliceosome complex, influencing the regulation of alternative splicing in specific transcripts. It is also known for mediating the regulation of pre-mRNA splicing in a PKA-dependent manner, which suggests that PKA signaling pathways may influence gene expression through alternative splicing mechanisms.

### 1. Associated Genes
While specific genes directly associated with AKAP17A are not typically listed, the following may be indirectly related owing to their involvement in similar splicing pathways and PKA signaling:

- **PRPF8**: Part of the spliceosome complex.
- **SNRNP200**: Involved in RNA splicing.
- **AKAP family of genes (e.g., AKAP1, AKAP2)**: Other anchoring proteins that contribute to PKA localization and signaling pathways.

These gene associations illustrate a network involved in mRNA processing and signaling dynamics.

### 2. Aging and Age-related Diseases
- **Alternative splicing regulation** is critical as changes in splicing patterns can lead to age-related diseases. Dysregulation of splicing factors, such as those influenced by AKAP17A, is associated with neurodegenerative diseases, cancers, and disorders involving cellular senescence.
- Research has shown that PKA signaling pathways may alter with age, potentially impacting processes like memory, cardiac function, and metabolism, possibly implicating AKAP17A in these physiological changes.

### 3. Drug Interactions
- **Drug Classes:**
  - **PKA Inhibitors:** Drugs that inhibit PKA activity may indirectly impact AKAP17A function due to its role in PKA anchoring and signaling.
  - **Anticancer agents:** Given its involvement with splicing regulation, alterations in AKAP17A expression might be targeted by specific therapies aimed at splice variants in tumorigenesis pathways.

Moreover, research into small molecules and their impacts on spliceosomal functions might provide additional insights into therapeutic avenues.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
AKAP17A is involved in several notable pathways and biological processes:
- **mRNA Splicing:** Directly related to the spliceosome's function, AKAP17A plays a significant role in splice site selection and alternative splicing.
- **Signal Transduction:** By anchoring PKA, this gene participates in signaling pathways that influence numerous cellular responses.
- **Developmental Processes:** Implicated in gene expression regulation during development, potentially affecting tissue differentiation and growth.
- **Response to Stress:** As part of PKA-mediated signaling, AKAP17A can influence cellular responses to stress stimuli by affecting gene splicing and expression.

### Conclusion
The AKAP17A gene is a multifaceted gene primarily known for its role in mRNA splicing regulation and PKA anchoring. Its interactions with other genes, possible contributions to aging and disease processes, drug interactions, and involvement in critical biological pathways underline its importance in cellular function and potential as a therapeutic target. Further research into AKAP17A may yield valuable insights into splicing-related pathologies and aging mechanisms.