### FZD3 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** FZD3  
**Function:** FZD3 is a member of the frizzled gene family that encodes seven-transmembrane domain proteins, which are receptors for Wnt signaling proteins. FZD3 is involved in various developmental processes, especially those related to neuronal and tissue morphogenesis. It plays significant roles in hair follicle development and in the guidance of axon growth in both central and peripheral nervous systems.

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### 1. Associated Genes

In addition to FZD3, several other genes may be associated with it, particularly in relation to developmental processes and pathways. These include:

- **FZD6:** Shares overlapping functions in neural tube closure and establishment of planar cell polarity.
- **WNT Proteins (e.g., WNT5A, WNT3A):** FZD3 receptors interact with WNT proteins, which mediate various signaling pathways.
- **DISHEVELED (DVL):** Essential for the canonical Wnt signaling pathway.
- **GSK-3 (Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3):** The canonical pathway involves the inhibition of this kinase, which is heavily related to FZD3's function.
- **APC (Adenomatous Polyposis Coli):** Involved in regulating beta-catenin levels in the Wnt signaling pathway.

### 2. Details Related to Aging or Age-related Diseases

FZD3 has been implicated in some studies related to neurodevelopmental disorders and has been identified as a susceptibility locus for schizophrenia, which may be linked to age-related cognitive decline. Moreover:

- Research indicates that alterations in Wnt signaling can relate to age-associated neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease.
- Changes in FZD3 signaling may also impact regenerative processes and tissue homeostasis, which are crucial elements of aging.
- There is evidence that disruptions in Wnt signaling pathways can lead to phenotypes reminiscent of aging effects in various tissues.

### 3. Drug Interactions

Currently, there are no specific drugs known that directly target FZD3; however, several classes of compounds may affect the Wnt signaling pathway in which FZD3 is involved:

- **Wnt Signaling Modulators:** Drugs designed to enhance or inhibit Wnt signaling (such as small molecule inhibitors of GSK-3).
- **Antineoplastic Agents:** Some cancer therapies may attempt to modulate Wnt signaling as part of their mechanism of action, due to the involvement of Wnt pathways in cancer progression.
- **Neurodevelopmental Disorder Treatments:** Certain compounds that affect neuronal growth may indirectly influence FZD3's function.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

FZD3 is involved in several critical biological pathways and processes:

- **Wnt Signaling Pathway:** It functions as a receptor for Wnt proteins, leading to activation of the canonical pathway involving beta-catenin.
- **Neural Development:** FZD3 is critical for the development of major fiber tracts in the central nervous system and is involved in the guidance of axons during neural development.
- **Tissue Morphogenesis:** Plays a role in the intercellular transmission and polarity during the morphogenesis of tissues.
- **Planar Cell Polarity (PCP):** Involves establishing cellular orientation within the plane of a tissue, crucial for proper organ development.
- **Axon Growth Regulation:** Essential for the regulation of axon guidance in both the central and peripheral nervous systems.

### Conclusion

The FZD3 gene is a key player in the Wnt signaling pathway, which has broad implications in development, particularly in the nervous system. While its specific functions continue to be explored, it is clear that FZD3 interacts with a complex network of genes and pathways that link to both developmental and potentially age-related processes, making it an important target for further research in neurodevelopmental and regenerative medicine.