Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Joel Gatlin

David J Unett

Chen Wang Liaw

Yaron Hakak

Sonia Villegas

Gregory S Kelner

The present invention relates to methods of using a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) to identify whether a candidate compound is a modulator of atherogenesis. In certain embodiments, the GPCR couples to Gi. In certain embodiments, the GPCR is human. Agonists of the invention are useful as therapeutic agents for the prevention or treatment of atherosclerosis and atherosclerotic disease, including coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, peripheral arterial disease, and ischemic stroke. Agonists of the invention are additionally useful as therapeutic agents for the prevention or treatment of conditions related to MCP-1 expression, including but not limited to rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and multiple sclerosis.

Methods of screening for a compound that reduces atherogenesis

The present invention relates to methods of identifying whether a candidate compound is a modulator of a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR). In certain embodiments, the GPCR is human. In certain embodiments, the GPCR is expressed endogenously by neuronal cells or muscle cells. In certain embodiments, the GPCR is neuroprotective or myoprotective. In certain embodiments, the GPCR is a Humanin receptor. The present invention also relates to methods of using a modulator of the GPCR. A preferred modulator is agonist. Agonists of the invention are useful as therapeutic agents for the prevention or treatment of neurodegenerative diseases in general, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, prion-associated disease, stroke and motor-neuron disease in particular, peripheral neuropathy, cerebral amyloid beta-protein angiopathy, and ischemic heart disease, including myocardial infarction and congestive heart failure.

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San Diego, CA, United States of America

Joel Gatlin