Abstract: This invention pertains to the identification and isolation of a gene implicated in the fatty liver dystrophy (fld) phenotype. Mouse and human forms of the novel gene, designated herein as Lpin1/LPIN1 (mouse and human genes, respectively), are identified. This invention additionally provides methods of screening for agents that alter adipose tissue development. The methods involve contacting a cell containing a Lpin1 gene with a test agent; and detecting a change in the expression or activity of a Lpin1 gene product, where a difference in the expression or activity of Lpin1 in the contacted cell indicates that the agent alters or is likely to alter adipose tissue development. Also provided are methods of identifying Lpin1 mutations, and methods of mitigating symptoms of lipodystrophy, obesity, diabetes, atherosclerosis and related pathologies.

Abstract: This invention provides novel assays that are prognostic and/or diagnostic for atherosclerosis or risk of atherosclerosis. It was discovered that high density lipoprotein (HDL) or components thereof can prevent the oxidation of lipids (e.g. lipids present in LDLs) and can also repair (reduce) already oxidized lipids and thereby reduce the inflammatory response associated with and characteristic of atherosclerotic plaque formation. Moreover it was a discovery of this invention that individuals vary in the ability of their HDL to afford such protection. Thus an assay of HDL protective and/or repair activity provides a highly effective assay for risk of atherosclerosis and its associated pathologies and such assays are provided herein.