### MTHFD2 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** MTHFD2  
**Location:** The human MTHFD2 gene is located on chromosome 2.

**Function:**  
The MTHFD2 gene encodes a mitochondrial enzyme involved in folate metabolism and one-carbon metabolism. Specifically, this bifunctional enzyme exhibits methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase and methenyltetrahydrofolate cyclohydrolase activities, crucial for the generation of tetrahydrofolate, which is essential for DNA synthesis and repair, as well as amino acid metabolism.

### 1. Associated Genes
While the NCBI and UniProt summaries do not specify associations with other genes, MTHFD2 is part of a larger metabolic and genetic network related to folate metabolism. It may interact with enzymes such as:

- **MTHFD1** (Methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 1), another enzyme involved in folate metabolism.
- **MTHFR** (Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase), an enzyme that plays a role in converting 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate to 5-methyltetrahydrofolate, a critical step in homocysteine metabolism.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
Research suggests that dysregulation of folate metabolism may contribute to age-related diseases, including neurodegenerative conditions and cardiovascular diseases. Elevated homocysteine levels, which can be affected by folate metabolism, have been linked to cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease. MTHFD2's role in this metabolic pathway implicates it in these processes. Additionally, alterations in MTHFD2 activity could influence cellular stress responses, which are critical in aging.

### 3. Drug Interactions
Currently, specific drug interactions directly targeting MTHFD2 are not extensively documented. However, certain classes of drugs associated with folate metabolism may indirectly affect MTHFD2 activity, including:

- **Folic Acid Supplements:** These can influence overall folate levels and may indirectly impact MTHFD2 through the regulation of substrate availability.
- **Methotrexate:** An antimetabolite and antifolate drug that inhibits rapidly dividing cells, thereby affecting folate metabolism pathways.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
MTHFD2 is involved in several crucial biological processes and pathways, including:

- **Folate Metabolism:** Its primary role involves the utilization of folate in one-carbon transfer reactions, essential for DNA synthesis and repair.
- **One-Carbon Metabolism Pathway:** This pathway is critical in maintaining cellular methylation processes, nucleotide synthesis, and amino acid metabolism.
- **Cell Proliferation and Growth:** Due to its involvement in the synthesis of nucleotides, MTHFD2 is essential for cell proliferation.
- **Response to Cellular Stress:** MTHFD2 is implicated in the cellular response to oxidative stress, a factor often elevated in aging and age-related diseases.

### Conclusion
The MTHFD2 gene plays a significant role in folate-related metabolic pathways with implications in aging and various diseases. Further research may unravel more about its specific interactions, potential pharmacological targets, and role in age-related health.