### SNORD116-8 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: SNORD116-8  
**Location**: The SNORD116-8 gene is located within the C/D box small nucleolar RNA (snoRNA) cluster and is predominantly expressed in the brain. It is part of the SNORD116 gene family, which is involved in the modification and processing of ribosomal RNA.

### 1. Associated Genes

SNORD116-8, as part of the SNORD116 cluster, may have associations with several genes involved in nucleolar function and RNA processing, although specific direct interactions are not always well characterized. Here are some genes potentially associated based on broader research on the SNORD116 family and related pathways:

- **SNORD116**: Other members of the SNORD116 gene cluster including SNORD116-1, SNORD116-2, etc.
- **RBFOX1**: This gene encodes a splicing factor that may interact with certain snoRNAs.
- **DICER1**: Involved in RNA interference, DICER1 can also intersect with small nucleolar RNAs in gene regulation.
- **FMR1**: The Fragile X mental retardation gene is implicated in related neurodevelopmental processes.

### 2. Aging or Age-Related Disease Associations

Research evidence linking SNORD116-8 specifically to aging or age-related diseases is limited; however, the broader family of SNORD116 genes has been investigated for its role in:

- **Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS)**: Loss of function or deletion of the SNORD116 cluster, including SNORD116-8, is primarily implicated in PWS. This syndrome is associated with obesity, developmental delays, and other metabolic issues that typically manifest through life, describing processes tied to aging and metabolic syndrome.
- Alterations in nucleolar function and its impact on cellular senescence may also indirectly relate to this gene’s function, implicating it in age-related decline in ribosome biogenesis and other aging mechanisms.

### 3. Drug or Drug Class Interactions

As of the latest data up to October 2023, there are no specific drugs or drug classes directly known to interact with the SNORD116-8 gene in any targeted therapeutic manner. However, the broader implications of modulating nucleolar activity or RNA processing may inspire future drug developments, particularly considering diseases like Prader-Willi Syndrome, which could benefit from pharmacological interventions addressing satellite RNA and global gene expression.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

SNORD116-8 is involved in several biological processes and pathways:

- **rRNA Methylation**: The main function of C/D box snoRNAs like SNORD116-8 is to guide methylation of ribosomal RNA, playing a crucial role in ribosome biogenesis.
- **RNA Processing**: The gene participates in the processing of pre-rRNA transcripts and is involved in the assembly of the ribosome.
- **Gene Regulation**: Insights suggest possible roles in the regulation of gene expression, particularly in neuronal contexts where protein synthesis ties to function.

Overall, while the SNORD116-8 gene participates significantly in nucleolar functions and possibly neurodevelopmental disorders, further research is essential to elucidate its role in aging and potential therapeutic applications.