### WDR3 Gene Summary

The **WDR3** gene encodes a nuclear protein characterized by the presence of **10 WD repeats**. WD repeats are structural motifs that facilitate protein-protein interactions and are critical in various cellular functions. WDR3 plays a significant role in the biogenesis of ribosomes, specifically as part of the **small subunit (SSU) processome**, a complex that is involved in the early maturation stages of the small eukaryotic ribosomal subunit. 

### Associated Genes

While specific gene interactions directly associated with WDR3 aren't often listed explicitly, several genes involved in ribosome biogenesis and cellular processes could be closely related. These might include:

1. **RPS2** (Ribosomal Protein S2)
2. **RPL5** (Ribosomal Protein L5)
3. **RPS14** (Ribosomal Protein S14)
4. **RRP5** (A gene involved in RNA polymerase I-dependent transcription)
5. **FBL** (Fibrillarin, an RNA-binding protein involved in rRNA processing)

WDR3 might also be indirectly associated with other genes that are part of pathways related to cell cycle regulation and apoptosis.

### Aging and Age-Related Diseases

Although direct studies linking WDR3 to aging are limited, alterations in ribosome biogenesis and function have been implicated in several age-related diseases. Deregulation of ribosomal protein genes and disruption of the ribosome assembly pathway have been associated with conditions such as:

1. **Cancer**: Aberrant ribosome biogenesis is often observed in cancer cells, leading to increased proliferation.
2. **Neurodegenerative Diseases**: Impaired ribosomal function can contribute to neuronal cell stress, which is seen in diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
3. **Genetic Disorders**: Mutations in ribosome assembly factors can lead to disorders like Diamond-Blackfan anemia and other ribosomopathies.

### Drug Interaction

Currently, there is no specific drug or drug class that is directly associated with the modulation of WDR3. However, since WDR3 is involved in ribosome biogenesis, drugs impacting ribosome function (like certain antibiotics - e.g., those targeting ribosomal RNA) may have downstream effects on the pathways WDR3 is part of. Research into compounds such as **Rapamycin** and related mTOR pathway inhibitors may also indirectly affect processes related to WDR3, owing to their roles in cell growth and metabolism.

### Pathways and Biological Processes

WDR3 is known to participate in several key pathways and biological processes, including:

1. **Ribosome Biogenesis**: As part of the SSU processome, it assists in the assembly of ribosomes from precursor rRNA.
2. **RNA Processing**: Involved in pre-rRNA folding, modification, and cleavage leading to mature rRNA.
3. **Cell Cycle Regulation**: Supports normal cell cycle progression through its role in ribosome synthesis.
4. **Signal Transduction**: WD repeat proteins are known to be involved in various signal transduction pathways.

### Conclusion

The WDR3 gene, with its unique structural features and critical role in ribosome biogenesis, underscores the interconnected nature of various cellular processes. While there are associations with multiple biological functions, ongoing research is necessary to fully elucidate the potential implications in aging, disease processes, and therapeutic targets.