### PEX1 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: PEX1  
**Location**: Chromosome 7 (7q21.3)  
**Gene Function**: The PEX1 gene encodes an ATPase involved in peroxisome biogenesis and the import of proteins into peroxisomes. It forms part of the PEX1-PEX6 ATPase complex that is crucial for recycling the PEX5 receptor from peroxisomal membranes.

### 1. Associated Genes
Several other peroxisome-related genes are associated with PEX1, particularly those involved in peroxisome biogenesis and function:

- **PEX5**: The peroxisomal receptor for import of proteins into peroxisomes (targeted by PEX1 for extraction).
- **PEX6**: Works in tandem with PEX1 as part of the ATPase complex.
- **PEX2, PEX10, PEX12**: These genes encode other components of the retrotranslocation channel complex involved in PEX5 recycling.
- **ABCD1**: Encodes an ATP-binding cassette transporter implicated in peroxisomal β-oxidation of very long-chain fatty acids, relevant in conditions like X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy.
  
### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
While there is limited direct data on the aging process specifically concerning PEX1, the dysfunction of peroxisomes has been linked to various age-related conditions, given their role in lipid metabolism and reactive oxygen species detoxification. Some indirect associations include:

- **Neurodegenerative diseases**: Disorders like Alzheimer’s disease may involve aggregation of damaged proteins in the context of disrupted peroxisomal function. 
- **Metabolic disorders**: Age-related metabolic syndromes may be influenced by mutations in peroxisomal genes, including PEX1.
  
### 3. Drug Interactions
Currently, there are no specific drugs known to directly interact with the PEX1 gene product. However, certain therapeutic approaches targeting metabolic pathways or aimed at mitigating peroxisomal disorders may be relevant:

- **Lorenzo’s Oil**: Used in the treatment of adrenoleukodystrophy; while it does not interact directly with PEX1, it addresses the metabolic consequences of disrupted peroxisomal function.
- **Statins**: By influencing lipid metabolism, statins may affect cellular pathways linked to peroxisome function, although not specific to PEX1.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
The PEX1 gene is involved in several critical biological processes and pathways, including but not limited to:

- **Peroxisome Biogenesis**: Essential for the formation of functional peroxisomes in the cell.
- **Protein Turnover**: Plays a role in the recycling of proteins via ubiquitination pathways.
- **ATPase Activity**: Involved in energy-dependent processes vital for protein dislocation from peroxisomal membranes.
- **Metabolism of Long-Chain Fatty Acids**: Because of its role in peroxisome function, PEX1 affects fatty acid metabolism and detoxification processes.
- **Ubiquitin-Proteasome Pathway**: The recognition of ubiquitinated substrates and extraction from membranes involve this signaling route.

### Conclusion
The PEX1 gene plays a significant role in peroxisome biogenesis and the recycling of peroxisomal import receptors. Mutations in this gene can lead to severe metabolic disorders, but its exact implications in aging and drug interactions warrant further research to clarify its role in health and disease.