### WASF3 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol**: WASF3  
**Location**: Chromosome 2q31.2  
**Aliases**: Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein family member 3, WASP family member 3

The WASF3 gene encodes a member of the Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein (WASP) family, which is integral in the regulation of the cytoskeleton, cellular morphology, and signal transduction. The protein encoded by WASF3 plays a significant role in linking receptor kinases and the actin cytoskeleton, facilitating changes in cell shape and motility.

### 1. Associated Genes
WASF3 is known to interact with several genes and proteins involved in signaling pathways and cytoskeletal rearrangements. Some of these include, but are not limited to:

- **WASP**: A well-characterized member of the WASP family involved in actin polymerization.
- **Cdc42**: A small GTPase that plays a crucial role in cell signaling and actin dynamics.
- **RhoG**: Another member of the Rho family of GTPases that interacts with WASF3 to regulate actin.
- **Arp2/3 complex**: Essential for actin nucleation and branching, this complex is influenced by WASF3.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
While there may be limited direct evidence regarding WASF3's specific role in aging or age-related diseases, its involvement in cellular motility and maintaining cytoskeletal integrity suggests it could influence processes such as:

- **Cell Senescence**: Alterations in cytoskeletal organization can impact cellular aging.
- **Tumor Progression**: Cell motility and morphology are critical in cancer metastasis. Enhancements in WASF3 function might be linked to increased tumor invasiveness.
- **Neurodegenerative Disorders**: Changes in cellular morphology and signaling in neurons can affect neurodegenerative processes.

### 3. Drug Interactions
Currently, specific drugs directly targeting the WASF3 protein may not be widely documented. However, compounds that modulate the function of signaling pathways associated with WASF3, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (e.g., Imatinib), may indirectly influence its activity. Research into small molecules that can modulate actin dynamics could also affect WASF3's role.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
WASF3 is involved in several critical signaling pathways and biological processes, including:

- **Actin Cytoskeleton Organization**: Regulating actin filament dynamics, crucial for maintaining the cell's shape and motility.
- **Cell Migration**: Participating in pathways that facilitate the movement of cells through tissue.
- **Signal Transduction**: Acting downstream of tyrosine kinase receptors and small GTPases to relay signals that influence cellular responses.
- **Phagocytosis**: Since WASF3 is implicated in cytoskeletal regulation, it may play a role in the uptake of particles by immune cells.

### Conclusion
WASF3 plays a multifaceted role in cell signaling and cytoskeletal mechanics, with implications in processes ranging from immune responses to cancer metastasis. Its interactions with various genes and involvement in numerous pathways underpin its significance in health and disease, potentially linking it to aging and various disorders, although direct associations may require further investigation.