Abstract: A cell-free assay system, which reconstitutes components of the phosphatidyl-inositol 3-kinase-mediated insulin signaling pathway including phosphatidylinositol phosphate dependent kinase-2 (“PDK2”). Alternatively, a in vitro method for phosphorylating a protein kinase B on Serine 473 or Serine 474. The invention relates generally to an in vitro method of phosphorylating a protein kinase B (“PKB” or “Akt”), to an in vitro method of assessing insulin action, and to an in vitro method of identifying an agent or process that modulates insulin signaling or any cellular activity regulated or influenced by PKB, including cell growth, mitosis, apoptosis, fuel metabolism, and oncogenic transformation. Such an agent or process may be useful in treating insulin resistance, diabetes, obesity, cancer, and a number of other diseases.

Abstract: This invention provides novel assays for measuring the metabolic side-effects of antiretroviral protease inhibitors on the Glut4 glucose transporter. The invention also provides improved methods for developing antiretroviral protease drugs, particularly those used to fight HIV infection. The invention further provides novel models of insulin-resistant glucose transport disease states.

Abstract: This invention provides novel assays for measuring the metabolic side-effects of antiretroviral protease inhibitors on the Glut4 glucose transporter. The invention also provides improved methods for developing antiretroviral protease drugs, particularly those used to fight HIV infection. The invention further provides novel models of insulin-resistant glucose transport disease states.