Four predicted target genes, epidermal growth factor receptor pathway substrate 8 (Eps8), lipoma HMGIC fusion partner (Lhfp), GLIS family zinc finger 2 (Glis2) and ribosomal protein S6 kinase, polypeptide 1 (Rps6kb1), which have been reported to be predominately associated with obesity and insulin resistance, were selected for further validation via luciferase reporter assays. The gene discussed is GLI2; the disease is obesity due to melanocortin 4 receptor deficiency.