### KDM4C Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** KDM4C  
**Location:** Chromosome 8 (8q24.3)

KDM4C, also known as lysine demethylase 4C, encodes a member of the Jumonji domain-containing (JMJD2) family of proteins. Its primary function is as a histone demethylase, specifically targeting trimethylated lysine residues on histone H3, notably at positions 9 (H3K9) and 36 (H3K36). This enzymatic activity is critical in the regulation of gene expression and chromatin dynamics, thereby influencing cellular processes such as cell differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis.

### 1. Associated Genes
KDM4C has been associated with a variety of genes and molecular pathways. Some notable gene interactions may include:

- **KDM4A:** Shares similar histone demethylase activity with overlapping substrate specificity.
- **KDM4B:** Involved in a common regulatory network related to histone modifications.
- **MYC:** Transcription factor known to be involved in the regulation of KDM4C expression and may also interact with KDM4C function in oncogenesis.
- **RET:** Linked through pathways in neuroblastomas, where changes in KDM4C expression are noted.
  
While the above genes are commonly associated with KDM4C, ongoing research may uncover additional interactions.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
KDM4C has been implicated in various aspects of aging and age-related diseases:

- **Cellular Senescence:** Altered expression of KDM4C can lead to dysregulation of histone methylation patterns, which may contribute to cellular senescence—a hallmark of aging.
- **Cancer:** Changes in KDM4C expression and activity have been noted in several cancers, including breast cancer and prostate cancer. Its role in cell proliferation and chromatin remodeling can influence tumor progression, linking this gene to age-related neoplasms.
- **Epigenetic Reprogramming:** The dysregulation of KDM4C and its impact on the histone code has implications in age-related epigenetic changes, potentially affecting longevity and the progression of age-associated diseases.

### 3. Drug Interactions
While specific drugs target KDM4C directly, inhibitors of the KDM4 family of demethylases have been developed:

- **Small-molecule Inhibitors:** Several compounds, such as GSK-J4 (a selective inhibitor of KDM4 enzymes), have been identified that inhibit the activity of KDM4C, with potential applications in cancer therapy.
- **Histone Demethylase Inhibitors:** These could include broader classes aimed at targeting demethylases involved in similar pathways.

These interactions are an area of active research, particularly in developing cancer therapeutics.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
KDM4C participates in several key pathways and biological processes, including:

- **Histone Modification:** Central role in modifying histone methylation patterns, thus influencing gene expression.
- **Cell Cycle Regulation:** Influences chromatin structure and dynamics during cell cycle transitions.
- **DNA Damage Response:** Potential involvement in the repair mechanisms related to DNA damage through histone modification.
- **Developmental Processes:** Plays a role in differentiation, influencing developmental pathways and cell fate decisions.

KDM4C's functions and associations position it as a critical player in epigenetic regulation, with implications in development, cancer biology, and the aging process. Further research continues to elucidate its diverse roles in cellular homeostasis and pathology.