#$%^&*AU2009251219B220130110.pdf#####C NRPorbhDCCD)YS 264455 1.1 DOC-23/12/2I09 ABSTRACT This invention discloses methods and agents for modulating the differentiation potential and/or proliferation of preadipocytes. More particularly, the present invention discloses 5 methods and agents for modulating a fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling pathway, especially the FGF-1 or FGF-2 signaling pathway, for treating or preventing adiposityrelated conditions including, but not limited to, obesity, lipoma, lipomatosis, cachexia or lipodystrophy or the loss of adipose tissue in trauma or atrophic conditions.