### INF2 Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** INF2  
**Chromosomal Location:** Human chromosome 19q13.1  
**Function:** The INF2 gene encodes a member of the formin family of proteins, which are critical regulators of the actin cytoskeleton. As a diaphanous formin, INF2 has a diaphanous inhibitory domain at its N-terminus, facilitating the dynamic polymerization and depolymerization of actin filaments. It can sever actin filaments, playing a pivotal role in maintaining actin filament homeostasis within cellular processes.

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### Additional Information

1. **Associated Genes:**
   - **APOL1**: Genetic variants in APOL1 are associated with kidney diseases and may interact with protein pathways that encompass INF2, especially in the context of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS).
   - **ACTN4**: Alpha-actinin-4 is another actin-binding protein that may interact with INF2 in the context of cytoskeletal regulation.
   - Additional genes related to kidney function and actin dynamics may also be functionally connected, but INFs specific direct associations are limited.

2. **Aging or Age-related Diseases:**
   - The INF2 gene has been implicated in focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), a kidney disease that can lead to renal failure, especially in older populations.
   - Mutations in INF2 have been associated with increased susceptibility to various age-related pathologies, particularly those affecting renal function. Given that renal function typically declines with age, understanding INF2's role could elucidate mechanisms behind renal aging.
   - INF2 may also be indirectly linked to other age-related conditions, such as hypertension and diabetes, due to its involvement in kidney function and actin dynamics.

3. **Drug Interactions:**
   - Currently, no specific drugs or drug classes directly targeting the INF2 protein have been identified in the literature. However, given its role in actin dynamics, compounds affecting the cytoskeleton, such as latrunculin or cytochalasins, may influence INF2 activity indirectly.
   - Clinical studies may explore potential therapeutic targets focused on modifying the activity of INF2 indirectly through pathways it influences.

4. **Pathways and Biological Processes:**
   - **Actin Cytoskeleton Organization**: INF2 plays an essential role in the assembly, disassembly, and severing of actin filaments.
   - **Cell Migration**: Due to its role in actin dynamics, INF2 influences cell motility and migration, vital for various physiological processes including wound healing and immune response.
   - **Filopodium Formation**: INF2 is involved in the formation of filopodia, contributing to cellular extensions that facilitate signaling and environmental interactions.
   - **Endocytosis**: As it modulates the actin cytoskeleton, INF2 also plays a role in endocytic pathways.
   - **Cell Division**: The regulation of actin dynamics during mitosis means INF2 may have implications in processes such as cytokinesis.

### Summary
The INF2 gene is integral to actin dynamics and associated with important cellular processes and structures. Its implications in disease, particularly focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, highlight its relevance in kidney health and aging. While direct pharmacological targeting is not well defined, further research into INF2 could provide therapeutic insights for age-related renal diseases and conditions influenced by actin regulation.