### YEATS4 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** YEATS4  
**Location:** Chromosome 10q24.31  
**Protein:** YEATS4 protein 

#### Summary
The YEATS4 gene encodes a protein that, as part of the NuA4 histone acetyltransferase (HAT) complex, plays an essential role in gene transcription by recognizing and binding to acetylated and crotonylated forms of histone H3. This activity is particularly significant in facilitating the transcriptional activation of select genes through the acetylation of nucleosomal histones. The protein is predominantly localized within nucleoli and exhibits similarities with MLLT1 and MLLT3, indicating its potential function as a transcription factor. Amplification of this gene has been observed in various tumors, suggesting its relevance in cancer biology. Alternative splicing gives rise to multiple isoforms of the protein.

### 1. Associated Genes
While the summaries primarily mention MLLT1 and MLLT3, further studies have identified associations with additional genes and proteins:
- **HIST1H3A** - Histone H3 (found to be a substrate for the YEATS4 protein's acetylation targets).
- **EP300/CBP** - Known acetyltransferases that work in conjunction with YEATS4 as part of the transcriptional regulatory network.
- **H2AFZ** - The gene encoding histone variant H2A.Z, which interacts with YEATS4 in chromatin remodeling processes.
- **BRD4** - A bromodomain-containing protein that may have functional overlap with YEATS4 in transcription regulation.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
While specific literature directly linking YEATS4 to aging or age-related diseases may be limited, the role of histone modifications, especially those mediated by proteins like YEATS4, suggests a potential involvement in aging processes. Dysregulated transcription and chromatin modifications are increasingly recognized as contributors to aging and associated pathologies. The impact of enhanced YEATS4 activity, linked to transcriptional activation in stem cells, hints at its possible influence on cellular aging and pluripotency maintenance. Abnormal expression of yeast homologs has been implicated in age-related stress responses and replicative lifespan.

### 3. Drug Interactions
As of now, there aren’t specific drugs or approved drug classes that directly target the YEATS4 gene or its protein product. However, drugs targeting histone acetylation or histone deacetylases (HDACs) may indirectly affect the pathways in which YEATS4 is involved. Examples of drug classes that could influence the activity of proteins in this pathway include:
- **HDAC inhibitors (e.g., vorinostat, romidepsin)** - These can increase histone acetylation levels, potentially affecting the transcriptional activities influenced by YEATS4.
- **Histone acetyltransferase inhibitors** - While not as prevalent in clinical use, research into inhibitors targeting specific acetyltransferases is ongoing.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
YEATS4 is engaged in several critical pathways and biological processes, including:
- **Transcription regulation** - Involvement in enhancing transcriptional activity by acetylation of histones.
- **Chromatin remodeling** - The histone reader function contributes to modifying chromatin architecture, affecting gene accessibility.
- **Histone modification** - Directly interacting with acetylated and crotonylated lysines on histone H3 for gene promoter activation.
- **Embryonic stem cell maintenance** - Essential for the deposition of histone variant H2A.Z, crucial for maintaining stemness and pluripotency.
- **Nucleosome assembly/disassembly** - Contributes to the dynamic changes in the chromatin landscape during transcriptional activation.

This information highlights the multifaceted role of YEATS4 within cellular processes and potential implications in health and disease, particularly in oncology and possibly in the context of aging. Further research may help elucidate its specific roles and potential therapeutic targets.