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. Here, LHFPL6 is linked to obesity due to melanocortin 4 receptor deficiency.