### RIOK1 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** RIOK1  
**Location:** Chromosome 20 (20q13.33)  
**Function:** The RIOK1 gene encodes a protein that plays a crucial role in the maturation of 40S ribosomal subunits, specifically in the processing of 18S-E pre-rRNA to mature 18S rRNA. It is involved in the recycling of other proteins like NOB1 and PNO1 from late 40S precursors and acts as an ATPase (suggested by its protein kinase domain activity). Additionally, RIOK1 recruits nucleolin (NCL) to the PRMT5 complex, facilitating symmetrical methylation.

### 1. Associated Genes
While the summaries mention NOB1, PNO1, pICln, and PRMT5, there may also be interactions or associations with:

- **RPL (Ribosomal Protein Genes):** A variety of ribosomal protein genes may be indirectly linked through the maturation processes or ribosome assembly.
- **MTOR (Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin):** Involved in cell growth and proliferation, this signaling pathway may interact with ribosomal biogenesis.
- **RPS (Ribosomal Protein S Genes):** Similar to RPL genes, influencing ribosome assembly.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases
While specific studies linking RIOK1 directly to aging or age-related diseases may be limited, ribosomal biogenesis and function have been implicated in aging processes. Alterations in ribosomal functions are associated with various age-related diseases, including:

- **Cancer:** Dysregulation of ribosomal biogenesis often leads to tumorigenesis.
- **Neurodegenerative diseases:** Impaired protein synthesis due to ribosome dysfunction may contribute to conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson's disease.

### 3. Drug Interactions
As of the latest data available, there are no specific drugs or drug classes conclusively identified to interact directly with RIOK1. However, due to its role in ribosomal function, any compounds targeting ribosome biogenesis or protein synthesis (such as certain antibiotics or chemotherapeutics) may indirectly impact the function of RIOK1 or its associated pathways.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes
The RIOK1 gene is involved in several critical biological pathways, including:

- **Ribosome Biogenesis:** Central to the assembly and maturation of ribosomal subunits.
- **Translation Process:** Plays a pivotal role in the translation initiation via the processing of rRNA and assembly of ribosomal proteins.
- **Cell Cycle Regulation:** Its interactions in ribosome assembly may also influence cell cycle progression and regulation.
- **Gene Expression Regulation:** Involvement in methylation processes can impact gene expression through post-translational modifications.

### Summary
The RIOK1 gene is essential for the final stages of 40S ribosomal subunit maturation, with pivotal roles in rRNA processing and protein recycling. While not explicitly linked to specific aging processes, its implications in ribosomal functionality suggest a potential connection to age-related diseases. The gene exhibits interactions within cellular pathways critical to translation and cellular function, though direct pharmacological links remain to be fully characterized.