Abstract: The present invention relates in part to isolated nucleic acid molecules (polynucleotides) which encode Rhipicephalus sanguineus glutamate gated chloride channels. The present invention also relates to recombinant vectors and recombinant hosts which contain a DNA fragment encoding R. sanguineus glutamate gated chloride channels, substantially purified forms of associated R. sanguineus glutamate gated chloride channels and recombinant membrane fractions comprising these proteins, associated mutant proteins, and methods associated with identifying compounds which modulate associated Rhipicephalus sanguineus glutamate gated chloride channels, which will be useful as insecticides.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions comprising an appetite suppressant and/or a metabolic rate enhancer and/or a nutrient absorption inhibitor useful for the treatment of obesity, and obesity-related disorders. The present invention further relates to methods of treating or preventing obesity, and obesity-related disorders, in a subject in need thereof by administering a composition of the present invention. The present invention further provides for pharmaceutical compositions, medicaments, and kits useful in carrying out these methods.