Abstract: Sequence #115, a G protein-coupled receptor, has been identified as a target for identifying weight modulating compounds. Compounds that modulate sequence #115 may be useful for the treatment of obesity and cachexia. Cell-based and cell-free assays are described to identify compounds which bind to and/or activate or inhibit the activity of sequence #115.

Abstract: The present invention provides polypeptides which are predominately expressed in visceral adipose tissue which can be used as markers for the measurement of the levels of visceral adipose tissue in a subject. The invention also provides methods for the measurement of the levels of visceral adipose tissue by obtaining a biological sample and detecting and/or measuring the increase of one or more polypeptides as disclosed herein. Screening methods relating to agonists and antagonists of the specific polypeptides disclosed herein are provided. Antibodies may also be raised against these polypeptide markers for the detection and/or treatment of metabolic syndrome related comorbidities.

Abstract: The present invention provides polypeptides which are correlated with pre-diabetes, diabetes or susceptibility to diabetes which can be used as markers for diagnosis of pre-diabetes, diabetes or a susceptibility or predisposition to develop diabetes. The invention also provides methods for the diagnosis of pre-diabetes, diabetes and/or the susceptibility to diabetes by obtaining a biological sample and detecting and/or measuring the increase of one or more polypeptides as disclosed herein. Screening methods relating to agonists and antagonists of the specific polypeptides disclosed herein are provided. Antibodies may also be raised against these polypeptide markers for the detection and/or treatment of diabetes. Proteins, protein fragments or peptides can be used for the treatment of diabetes or pre-diabetes.