### SLCO4C1 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: SLCO4C1  
**Entrez Gene ID**: 24072  
**Location**: Chromosome 3p21.1  

The SLCO4C1 gene encodes a member of the solute carrier organic anion transporter family, specifically important for the transport of various organic anions in the kidney and has functions in renal physiology and reproductive biology. 

#### 1. Associated Genes
Although the summary provided does not specifically mention other genes, SLCO4C1 may have functional interactions with the following related genes:
- **SLCO family members** (e.g., SLCO1B1, SLCO1B3) - all involved in the transport of organic compounds.
- **DDAH1 (Dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase 1)** - responsible for the degradation of ADMA, which may interact with SLCO4C1 in the kidney.
- **SLC Transporter Family** genes - as SLCO4C1 is a member of this family, it likely interacts with or is functionally related to other SLC transporters involved in renal anion transport.

#### 2. Aging and Age-related Diseases
SLCO4C1 may be implicated in the following aspects related to aging:
- **Cardiovascular Health**: The renal secretion of ADMA, a uremic toxin linked to cardiovascular events, indicates that SLCO4C1 could play a role in age-related cardiovascular diseases. Elevated levels of ADMA are associated with endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular risk, particularly in older individuals.
- **Kidney Function**: Given its role in renal transport, dysregulation of SLCO4C1 may have implications for renal function in aging populations, particularly regarding the clearance of organic anions and potential accumulation of harmful compounds.
- **Sperm Maturation**: Altered expression or function of SLCO4C1 could affect sperm quality and maturation, potentially impacting fertility in aging males.

#### 3. Drug Interactions
SLCO4C1 is known to interact with several drugs:
- **Digoxin**: A cardiac glycoside, SLCO4C1 is involved in the renal handling of digoxin, which is crucial for patients with heart failure.
- **Ouabain**: Another cardiac glycoside that may be transported by SLCO4C1.
- **Methotrexate**: A drug used in cancer therapy that may also interact with SLCO4C1.
  
Additionally, because SLCO4C1 transports thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), there may be implications for medications affecting thyroid function or metabolism.

#### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
SLCO4C1 is involved in several key biological processes and pathways:
- **Renal Anion Transport**: Facilitates the uptake and secretion of organic anions in the proximal tubules of the kidneys, affecting kidney function and homeostasis.
- **Sperm Maturation**: Plays a role in maintaining epididymal homeostasis, crucial for sperm maturation.
- **Uremic Toxin Transport**: Assists in the renal secretion of toxins, such as ADMA, that could impact cardiovascular health.
- **Transport of Thyroid Hormones**: Mediates the uptake of critical hormones in renal tissues, which may have implications in metabolic processes.
- **Involvement in Acid-Base Balance**: May interact with bicarbonate transport in renal physiology, contributing to acid-base homeostasis.

### Summary
SLCO4C1 is a significant gene with multiple roles in renal function, cardiovascular health, and reproductive biology. Its interactions with drugs and potential implications in aging highlight its relevance in both pharmacogenomics and gerontology. Further research may elucidate its role in disease pathogenesis and therapeutic targeting.