### SLC13A4 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** SLC13A4  
**Location:** This gene encodes the sodium-sulfate symporter, which is crucial for sulfate reabsorption, particularly in high endothelial venules (HEV). 

### 1. Associated Genes

SLC13A4 may have interactions with or associations with several other genes involved in ion transport and sulfate metabolism. Some of these might include:

- **SLC26A1**: A gene that is involved in sulfate transport and may have functional overlaps with SLC13A4.
- **SLC26A2**: Another gene encoding a sulfate transporter, highlighting the interconnectedness of sulfate transport in the body.
- **SLCO1B1**: An organic anion transporter associated with drug metabolism and disposition, which may indirectly relate through sulfate metabolism pathways.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases

While specific studies directly linking SLC13A4 to aging or age-related diseases are limited, sulfate transport is crucial in various physiological processes, including oxidative stress and detoxification pathways. Impaired sulfate homeostasis is implicated in cellular aging and has been suggested in the context of age-related diseases, such as:

- **Osteoporosis**: Sulfate is essential for the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans in bone, and sulfate deficiency could affect bone health.
- **Cardiovascular Diseases**: Sulfate metabolism may impact vascular health, as sulfate plays a role in nitric oxide signaling.
- **Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)**: Alterations in sulfation processes could have implications in kidney health, particularly as the risk for CKD increases with age.

More research is needed to elucidate the specific aging-related effects or disease associations with SLC13A4.

### 3. Drug Interactions

While there are no specific FDA-approved drugs solely targeting SLC13A4, some classes of compounds may indirectly influence its function:

- **Diuretics**: Certain diuretics impact electrolyte transports, potentially affecting sodium and sulfate transport indirectly.
- **NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)**: These may influence kidney function and subsequently impact sulfate handling by the SLC13A4 pathway.

Specific drugs targeting sulfate metabolism directly are limited, but studies on compounds affecting renal function could yield insights.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

SLC13A4 is involved in several important biological processes and pathways:

- **Sulfate Transport**: The primary role of SLC13A4 is in the active transport of sulfate ions across cellular membranes, which is essential for maintaining sulfate levels in tissues.
- **Ion Transport**: It plays a role in sodium and anion symport processes that are critical to cellular ion homeostasis.
- **Renal Physiology**: In the kidneys, SLC13A4 is involved in the reabsorption of sulfate, thus influencing overall electrolyte balance and kidney function.
- **Endothelial Function**: Plays a part in the transport mechanisms crucial for endothelial health, which is vital for vascular biology.

### Conclusion

The SLC13A4 gene is critical for sulfate transport and homeostasis, with implications for cellular processes and systemic physiological functions. More studies are needed to further define its role in aging and age-related diseases, as well as its interactions with specific drugs and pathways.