A method of inhibiting cellular activation by Insulin like Growth Factor 1 (IGF 1) in a subject in need thereof (e.g. a subject afflicted with cancer atherosclerosis diabetic retinopathy or other disease) comprises administering an antagonist that inhibits the binding of IAP to SHPS 1 to the subject in an amount effective to inhibit cellular activation by IGF 1. Compounds and compositions for carrying out such methods are also described.