### ANXA4 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** ANXA4  
**Full Name:** Annexin A4  
**Chromosomal Location:** Human chromosome 2q31.1  

#### Function and Structure
The ANXA4 gene encodes a calcium-dependent phospholipid-binding protein that belongs to the annexin family. These proteins are typically characterized by their ability to bind to membranes in a calcium-dependent manner, suggesting a role in various membrane-related events including exocytosis and endocytosis. ANXA4 shows high sequence similarity (45 to 59% identity) to other annexins and is known to interact with ATP, suggesting potential roles in energy-dependent cellular processes. The protein also exhibits in vitro anticoagulant activity and can inhibit phospholipase A2 activity, which may have therapeutic implications.

#### 1. Associated Genes
While the specific summaries provided do not detail specific genes associated with ANXA4, annexins generally interact with various proteins involved in cellular processes, including cytoskeletal components and enzymes involved in lipid metabolism. Some annotations suggest potential associations with genes involved in inflammatory responses, apoptosis, and cancer pathways:

- **ANXA1:** Another annexin protein that may be involved in similar membrane processes.
- **ANXA2:** Known for functions in stabilizing the cytoskeleton and regulating exocytosis.

#### 2. Age-Related Associations
Research has indicated that alterations in annexin levels, including ANXA4, may play roles in age-related conditions. Particularly, changes in calcium signaling and membrane dynamics can affect:

- **Neurodegenerative Diseases:** Abnormal annexin expression may correlate with Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders.
- **Cancer:** Aberrant expression of annexin proteins, including ANXA4, has been implicated in tumor growth and metastasis, potentially being influenced by age-related factors.
  
However, specific age-related studies exclusively targeting ANXA4 and clearly defining its role in aging or disease mechanisms remain limited.

#### 3. Drug and Drug Classes
As of the latest information, specific drugs directly targeting ANXA4 have not been widely characterized. However, general anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory drugs may indirectly affect the pathways involving ANXA4. Examples include:

- **Anticoagulants:** Drugs like warfarin could be relevant due to ANXA4's in vitro anticoagulant activity.
- **Phospholipase Inhibitors:** Since ANXA4 inhibits phospholipase A2 activity, drugs affecting lipase activity might interact indirectly with pathways influenced by ANXA4.

#### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
ANXA4 is known to be involved in several key biological processes and pathways:

- **Membrane Fusion and Fission:** As a calcium/phospholipid-binding protein, ANXA4 participates in membrane dynamics essential for exocytosis and endocytosis.
- **Anticoagulant Activity:** ANXA4 has roles in regulating blood coagulation processes.
- **Cell Signaling:** It may be involved in processes regulated by calcium signaling pathways, influencing various cellular responses.
- **Inflammation Pathways:** Potentially implicated in the mechanisms of inflammation and response to injury due to its membrane-related functions.

### Conclusion
The ANXA4 gene encoding Annexin A4 plays a multifunctional role in membrane dynamics and cellular processes, with implications for understanding cancer biology, aging, and other physiological responses. While specific associations with aging and pharmacological agents are still being explored, ANXA4's role in anticoagulation and cytoskeletal regulation underscores its potential impact in various health conditions. Further research is warranted to elucidate the pathophysiological contexts in which ANXA4 operates.