Blockers of the growth hormone receptor in disease prevention and treatment

Abstract

Compounds and methods for treating diseases or conditions affected by the activity or expression of genes/proteins related to human GH, GHR, STAT5, SOCS, IGF-1, insulin are provided. Monoclonal antibodies for treating diseases or conditions related to growth hormone and growth hormone receptor activity are also provided.

1 .- 15 . (canceled) 
     
     
         16 . A method for treating diseases or conditions caused by growth hormone activity, the method comprising:
 identifying a subject having a disease or condition caused by the activity of growth hormone or genes regulated by it including GHR, IGF-1 and insulin; and   administering a therapeutically effective amount of antibodies that target the growth hormone receptor and/or the growth hormone.   
     
     
         17 . The method of  claim 16  wherein the antibodies are monoclonal antibodies. 
     
     
         18 . The method of  claim 16  wherein the diseases or conditions are selected from the group consisting of acromegaly, chemotherapy or other therapies involving toxins that damage normal cells, cancer, diabetes, immunodepression, immunosuppression, immunosenescence, immunodeficiency, Alzheimer's disease, aging, and diseases and conditions benefiting from cellular and tissue regeneration.