Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide improved methods of treating conditions requiring human growth hormone (hGH) therapy, whereby the beneficial effects of hGH such as growth promotion and lipolysis are retained and unwanted properties are reduced or eliminated. In particular, it is directed at a method of treatment whereby the lactogenic side effects of hGH treatment are reduced. Said enhanced method includes the use of a growth hormone variant; 20 kDa hGH-V in the treatment of conditions that are currently treated with hGH or that have the potential to be treated with hGH.

Abstract: Anti-GPE antibodies are provided that can be used to detect the presence of GPE in a sample. GPE antibodies can be raised against conjugated GPE to produce antibodies that are specific for a GPE that has been derivatized using a similar coupling chemistry as was used for making the GPE conjugate. To detect GPE in a sample, the sample is exposed to a derivatizing agent to produce a derivatized GPE that is recognized by the anti-GPE antibody. Using similar strategies, antibodies can be raised against other weakly immunogenic molecules (WIMs) that can be the basis for assays and kits for assaying for WIMs.

Abstract: This invention provides compositions and methods for treating adverse effects of growth hormone therapy in animals that are small for gestational age or suffered from intrauterine growth restriction. Methods include providing growth hormone to increase growth rates, and includes co-administration of an insulin sensitiser, such as a biguanide or a thiazolidinedione. In other embodiments, combinations of insulin sensitisers can be co-administered along with growth hormone.