### GSTM4 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** GSTM4  
**Location:** Chromosome 1p13.3  
**Gene Family:** Glutathione S-transferases (GST), Mu class  
**Function:** Detoxification of electrophilic compounds through conjugation with reduced glutathione (GSH), catalyzing reactions with a variety of substrates, including carcinogens and therapeutic drugs.

### 1. Associated Genes
The GSTM4 gene is part of a gene cluster along with several other genes that code for enzymes in the mu class of glutathione S-transferases. Other notable genes in this cluster include:
- **GSTM1:** Another member of the mu class, known for its role in drug metabolism and carcinogen detoxification.
- **GSTM2:** Similar function as other mu class GSTs, contributing to detoxification processes.
- **GSTM3:** Also relates to detoxification and biotransformation of xenobiotics.

Additional genes related to GST activity may include:
- **GSTA (Alpha class):** Has overlapping functions of conjugation with GSH.
- **GTSZ (Zeta class):** Involved in similar detoxification reactions, albeit with differing substrate specificity.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
The GSTM4 gene has been studied in the context of aging and age-related diseases due to its role in detoxification and oxidative stress response. Significantly, variations or decreased expression of GSTM4 and other GSTs may lead to a reduced capacity to detoxify harmful compounds, contributing to:
- **Increased susceptibility to age-related cancers:** GSTs' role in detoxification makes them pivotal in preventing carcinogenesis.
- **Neurodegenerative diseases:** Impaired detoxification may contribute to the accumulation of toxic metabolites associated with conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
- **Cardiovascular diseases:** The association of oxidative stress and inflammation in aging can exacerbate cardiovascular issues which may involve GSTM4.

### 3. Drug Interactions
GSTM4 is known to interact with various drugs and drug classes, which may involve:
- **Chemotherapeutic agents:** Certain anticancer drugs may be metabolized by GST enzymes, including GSTM4, influencing both efficacy and toxicity.
- **Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs):** Such drugs may interact with this enzyme, affecting their metabolism.
- **Environmental toxins:** Interaction with pollutants and other harmful substances affecting metabolism.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
GSTM4 is involved in several biological pathways and processes. Key pathways include:
- **Detoxification Pathways:** GSTM4 plays a critical role in biotransformation pathways that convert hydrophobic electrophiles into less toxic, water-soluble forms.
- **Glutathione Metabolism:** Participates in cellular responses to oxidative stress by utilizing glutathione.
- **Inflammatory Response:** The enzyme aids in conjugating leukotrienes, thus modulating inflammatory processes; it is specifically involved in the synthesis of leukotriene C4 and maresin conjugate in tissue regeneration, regulating both inflammation and resolution.

In summary, the GSTM4 gene is vital for the detoxification of harmful compounds, plays a role in aging and age-related diseases, interacts with various drugs, and is involved in multiple biological pathways critical to maintaining cellular health. Its variability impacts individual susceptibility to diseases and drug responses, highlighting its potential as a marker for personalized medicine.