Abstract: Thermogenic molecules and methods of using these molecules for treating or preventing a condition in a subject selected from the group consisting of visceral fat accumulation (e.g., Crohn's disease associated with visceral fat accumulation), obesity, diabetes, pre-diabetes, hypothermia, and chronic inflammation are disclosed. Also disclosed is a method for promoting glucose uptake in peripheral tissues (e.g., adipocytes and muscles) of a subject, enhancing nerve innervation in a subject, activating PI3 kinase in cell, and inducing leptin secretion by an adipocyte. Also disclosed are inhibitors of thermogenic molecules and methods of using these inhibitors to decrease thermogenesis of adipocytes in a subject. Also disclosed are self-assembled, biocompatible nanostructure non-covalently associated with a therapeutic or diagnostic peptide or peptidomimetic.

Abstract: Thermogenic molecules and methods of using these molecules for treating or preventing a condition in a subject selected from the group consisting of visceral fat accumulation (e.g., Crohn's disease associated with visceral fat accumulation), obesity, diabetes, pre-diabetes, hypothermia, and chronic inflammation are disclosed. Also disclosed is a method for promoting glucose uptake in peripheral tissues (e.g., adipocytes and muscles) of a subject, enhancing nerve innervation in a subject, activating PI3 kinase in cell, and inducing leptin secretion by an adipocyte. Also disclosed are inhibitors of thermogenic molecules and methods of using these inhibitors to decrease thermogenesis of adipocytes in a subject. Also disclosed are self-assembled, biocompatible nanostructure non-covalently associated with a therapeutic or diagnostic peptide or peptidomimetic.

Abstract: Disclosed are conjugates of hydrophobic drugs linked to protected or unprotected amino acids or peptides. The disclosed conjugates are amphiphilic and can self assemble into nantubes. Nanotubes comprising the conjugates are also described and can have high loading of the drug and protect it from degradation or elimination. The nanotubes are well suited to deliver hydrophobic and unstable drugs to individuals.

Abstract: Disclosed are conjugates of hydrophobic drugs linked to protected or unprotected amino acids or peptides. The disclosed conjugates are amphiphilic and can self assemble into nanotubes. Nanotubes comprising the conjugates are also described and can have high loading of the drug and protect it from degradation or elimination. The nanotubes are well suited to deliver hydrophobic and unstable drugs to individuals.