Merck + Co., Inc.

Sheng-Shung Pong

Andrew D Howard

Roy G Smith

Scott D Feighner

Arthur A Patchett

Ravi P Nargund

Leonardus H T Van Der Ploeg

David G Melillo

Douglas J MacNeil

Carina P Tan

Leonardus H Van Der Ploeg

Karen Kulju McKee

Dennis C Dean

James M Schaeffer

Lee-Yuh Pai

The motilin receptor has been isolated and cloned, and nucleic acid sequences are given. Two spice variants have been identified. Also, assays for motilin receptor ligands are given. The identification of the cloned motilin receptor may be used to screen and identify compounds which bind to the receptor for use in a variety of gastric conditions, including gastric motility disorders.

Cloning and identification of the motilin receptor

An assay for the detection of growth hormone secretagogue receptors and growth hormone secretagogue related receptors is described. As these receptors are a member of the G protein coupled receptors, a subunit of the G protein must be present in order for expression to be detected. A similar assay is described where the presence of growth hormone secretagogues are detected.

Assays for growth hormone secretagogue receptors

The present invention is directed to �.sup.35 S!-N-�1(R)-�(1,2-dihydro-1-methanesulfonylspiro�3H-indole-3,4'-piperidin!- 1'-yl)carbonyl!-2-(phenylmethyloxy)ethyl!-2-amino-2-methylpropanamide, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. This �.sup.35 S! radioligand is useful in identifying and characterizing cellular receptors which play a role in the activity of growth hormone secretatogogues. In addition, this �.sup.35 S! radioligand is useful in assays which test compounds for growth hormone secretagogue activity.

Radiolabeled growth hormone secretagogue

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Edison, NJ, United States of America

Sheng-Shung Pong