The WDR46 gene encodes a protein that is essential for the proper processing of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and, consequently, for ribosome biogenesis. Below is a detailed overview based on your specific requests:

### 1. Associated Genes
In addition to its role in rRNA maturation, WDR46 is associated with several other genes that play roles in ribosome biogenesis and RNA processing. While specific associations can be context-dependent, it’s known to interact or be functionally linked to:
- **DDX21**: An RNA helicase involved in ribosomal RNA processing.
- **NCL** (Nucleolin): A multifunctional nucleolar protein that is also involved in rRNA maturation and ribosome assembly.
- Various ribosomal proteins (RPs) which interact with WDR46 during the assembly of the SSU processome.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
Although there is not an extensive list of age-related diseases directly associated with WDR46, ribosome biogenesis has been implicated in aging and cellular senescence. Disruption in the process can be linked to:
- **Cancer**: Aberrant ribosome biogenesis has been connected to tumorigenesis. WDR46's role as a scaffold component might influence pathways that, when dysregulated, could lead to cancer.
- **Neurodegenerative diseases**: Impairment of ribosomal function can contribute to the pathology of diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, though specific mutations or dysregulation of WDR46 in these contexts may not yet be well established.

### 3. Drug Interactions
Currently, there are no well-known specific drugs or drug classes directly targeting WDR46. However, since ribosome biogenesis is a critical process in cell proliferation, drugs that influence this pathway, such as:
- **Antibiotics (e.g., macrolides, aminoglycosides)**, which target bacterial ribosomes, could indirectly affect pathways related to ribosome assembly and processing within cellular contexts.
- **Chemotherapeutics** that target rapidly dividing cells may affect ribosome biogenesis pathways.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
WDR46 is involved in several biological processes, including but not limited to:
- **Ribosome biogenesis**: Integral to the assembly of ribosomal subunits.
- **rRNA processing**: Specifically, maturation of SSU-rRNA from precursor transcripts.
- **Cellular response to stress**: It may play a role in managing cellular stress responses, particularly in relation to nucleolar stress where ribosomal components are affected.
- **Nuclear RNA metabolism**: Participates in the processing and maturation of various RNA species within the nucleoplasm.

Furthermore, WDR46's activity in the nucleolus connects it to broader regulatory mechanisms, including cell proliferation and response to various cellular signals.

In summary, WDR46 plays a crucial role in ribosome biogenesis and RNA processing, potentially influencing important cellular pathways, aging, and diseases. Research into this gene may provide further insight into its comprehensive role in health and disease.