Inhibition of the beta3 subunit of l-type ca2+ channels

Abstract

The present invention provides reagents and methods for identifying inhibitors of the L-type Ca 2+ channel β 3 protein, which has been demonstrated to be involved in calcium signaling, insulin secretion, and glucose homeostasis. The invention also provides therapeutics and methods for treating a subject with one or more of diabetes, insulin resistance, impaired insulin secretion, and impaired glucose homeostasis, involving the use of inhibitors of an L-type Ca 2+ channel β 3 subunit to provide a benefit to the subject.

1 - 5 . (canceled) 
     
     
         6 . A method for treating a subject with one or more disorders selected from the group consisting of diabetes, insulin resistance, impaired insulin secretion, and impaired glucose homeostasis, comprising administering to the subject one or more inhibitors of an L-type Ca 2+  channel β 3  subunit to provide a benefit to the subject. 
     
     
         7 . (canceled) 
     
     
         8 . The method of  claim 7  wherein the one or more inhibitors of the L-type Ca 2+  channel β 3  subunit comprises a compound selected from the group consisting of an antibody specific for the L-type Ca 2+  channel β 3  subunit; an antisense oligonucleotide directed against the L-type Ca 2+  channel β 3  subunit gene; and a small interfering RNA directed against the L-type Ca 2+  channel β 3  subunit gene.