Abstract: The present invention is directed to, inter alia, a scaffold-cell construct including a biocompatible polymer (e.g., poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) and polylactic glycolic acid (PLGA)) and recombinant cells having increased GLUT4 levels and/or activity. The invention is further directed to methods for reducing glucose levels in a subject in need thereof. Also provided are methods of producing the scaffold-cell construct of the invention.

Abstract: Agents capable of alleviating AHNAK phosphoprotein-mediated repression of GLUT4 gene expression are useful for prevention, treatment, and/or alleviation of insulin resistance associated with obesity, lipotoxicity, hypertension, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. Preferred agents are double-stranded siRNAs.

Abstract: Agents capable of alleviating AHNAK phosphoprotein-mediated repression of GLUT4 gene expression are useful for prevention, treatment, and/or alleviation of insulin resistance associated with obesity, lipotoxicity, hypertension, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. Preferred agents are double-stranded siRNAs.

Abstract: A method for detecting a modulator of transcription of a human PPAR gene promoter is provided, comprising contacting a candidate compound with a cell transfected with an expression vector containing a heterologous gene operably linked to a PPAR promoter and an additional expression vector containing the FOXO1 gene, and comparing the level of expression of said heterologous gene in the presence of the compound and in the absence thereof, whereby a modulator of transcription of the human PPAR gene promoter is identified. The PPAR gene promoter is preferably the PPAR?2 promoter, and the DNA-binding domain of the FOXO1 protein binds to a sequence encompassing the 63 to 323 bp region of the human PPAR?2 promoter, preferably the 270 to 310 bp region.

Abstract: The invention provides a method and a system for dietary control. The method provides information to a person under dietary limitations prior to and during a meal regarding an item positioned before the person in real time. The system includes, in combination, a video photographic means connected to a computer provided with a suitable database and further provided with a display unit connected to the computer.

Abstract: The invention provides a method and means for dietary control.