### DPEP3 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** DPEP3  
**Chromosomal Location:** Chromosome 16  
**Gene Family:** Dipeptidase Family  

The DPEP3 gene encodes a membrane-bound glycoprotein that is part of the dipeptidase family, which is involved in hydrolytic metabolism and degradation of dipeptides, with specific mention of its interaction with beta-lactam antibiotics. The gene has multiple alternatively spliced transcript variants leading to different isoforms, reflecting the complexity of its expression and potential functional roles.

### 1. Associated Genes
DPEP3 is located in proximity to other genes within the same dipeptidase family. Although the specific NCBI and UniProt summaries primarily discuss DPEP1 and DPEP2, other genes that may share functional associations or positional clustering include:

- **DPEP1**: This gene is known to possess active dipeptidase activity.
- **DPEP2**: Also encodes a dipeptidase with activity against various substrates.

Other potential associated genes could be identified through genomic studies focusing on the region of chromosome 16 where DPEP3 is located; however, specific external associations would need further exploration in dedicated databases or studies.

### 2. Aging or Age-Related Diseases
As of the knowledge cut-off date in October 2023, specific details directly linking DPEP3 to aging or age-related diseases are not widely documented. However, the function of dipeptidases and their role in peptide metabolism could suggest potential involvement in age-related metabolic changes. Further research could clarify any specific contributions to conditions such as:

- **Neurodegenerative Disorders**: Accumulation of dipeptide fragments may influence neurodegeneration.
- **Cancer**: Altered peptide metabolism could be relevant in cancer progression or in the development of cachexia.

### 3. Drug Interactions
While DPEP3 is noted for its lack of dipeptidase activity and inability to hydrolyze certain drugs, its proximity to and relationship with DPEP1 and DPEP2 may indicate relevance in pharmacology concerning beta-lactam antibiotics such as:

- **Imipenem**: A beta-lactam antibiotic that is specifically mentioned to be unmetabolized by DPEP3.
- **Penem and Carbapenem Antibiotics**: Although DPEP3 itself does not metabolize these, its family may interact with such compounds.

The exact influence of drugs on DPEP3 remains largely uncharacterized beyond the hindrances in hydrolysis of specific substrates mentioned.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
DPEP3 may be implicated in several biological processes related to peptide metabolism, including but not limited to:

- **Peptide Degradation**: Related to the breakdown of dipeptides into their constituent amino acids.
- **Antibiotic Metabolism**: Its role in the interaction with beta-lactam antibiotics might have consequences on antibiotic resistance mechanisms.
- **Metabolic Pathways**: Part of general metabolic pathways involving amino acid and peptide metabolism.

Further investigations could elucidate additional specific pathways influenced by this gene and its interactions with other metabolic processes.

### Conclusion
DPEP3 represents an intriguing member of the dipeptidase family with unique characteristics, particularly its inactivity against key substrates, suggesting it may have distinct roles or regulatory functions within physiological contexts. Further functional studies could enhance our understanding of its implications in health, disease, and pharmacology.