### USP35 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** USP35  
**Gene Type:** Protein-Coding  
**Family:** Peptidase C19 (Ubiquitin-specific proteases)

#### Function
The USP35 gene encodes for a member of the ubiquitin-specific proteases (DUBs) which are crucial for regulating the ubiquitin-proteasome system by removing ubiquitin from target proteins. This process is vital for various cellular functions including signal transduction, protein degradation, and immune response modulation. USP35 specifically associates with polarized mitochondria and has a role in inhibiting NF-kappa B activation. It has also been implicated in the regulation of mitochondrial quality control since it delays PARK2-mediated mitochondrial degradation.

### 1. Associated Genes
While USP35 is primarily studied on its own, it is known to have interactions with several genes and their products, including:
- **PARK2 (Parkin):** A gene associated with mitochondrial degradation and Parkinson's disease which USP35 regulates.
- **NF-kappa B (RelA/NF-kB3):** This transcription factor's activity is modulated by USP35.
- **let-7a microRNA:** This microRNA has been shown to upregulate USP35 and is involved in various regulatory pathways affecting cellular aging and cancer.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
Research suggests that USP35 may have a role in cellular aging and the progression of age-related diseases. 
- **Cancer:** Downregulation of USP35 has been reported in various human tumors, suggesting that its loss may contribute to tumorigenesis and the persistence of oncogenic signals.
- **Neurodegeneration:** The involvement of USP35 in the regulation of mitochondrial health ties it to neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease, where faulty mitochondrial dynamics are a significant contributor to pathology.

### 3. Drug Interactions
Currently, specific drug interactions with USP35 are not well-documented in the literature. However, since USP35 is involved in several signaling pathways, it may indirectly interact with drugs affecting NF-kappa B signaling or therapeutic agents targeting mitochondrial functions. Further research and clinical studies are needed to identify specific drug candidates that modulate USP35 activity or expression.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
The USP35 gene is involved in several important biological processes and signaling pathways:
- **Ubiquitin-Proteasome Pathway:** Plays a critical role in protein degradation and cellular protein turnover.
- **NF-kappa B Signaling:** Participation in the regulation of this pathway influences immune responses, inflammation, and cell survival.
- **Mitochondrial Biogenesis and Dynamics:** Contributes to maintaining mitochondrial quality control and function.

In summary, USP35 is an important gene that encodes a deubiquitinating enzyme involved in cellular regulation related to mitochondrial health and inflammatory responses. Its impact on aging and disease, particularly in cancer and neurodegeneration, along with its interactions with various signaling pathways, makes it a potential target for future therapeutic strategies. Further studies could elucidate its role in drug interactions and specific age-related conditions.