Abstract: A method and apparatus for clustering polypeptide sequences, and in particular transmembrane proteins, is disclosed. Intra-membrane regions are isolated and the amino acid labels replaced with one or more physical/chemical parameters. The resulting data vectors are analysed using a clustering technique based on correlation between the data vectors, for example using aglomerative hierarchical clustering.

Abstract: Isolated nucleotide compositions and sequences are provided for LGR4, LGR5 and LGR7 genes. The nucleic acid compositions find use in identifying homologous or related genes; in identifying endogenous ligands for these receptors; in producing compositions that modulate the expression or function of its encoded protein; for gene therapy; mapping functional regions of the protein; and in studying associated physiological pathways. In addition, modulation of the gene activity in vivo is used for prophylactic and therapeutic purposes.