Screening methods for identifying compounds that bind to or activate corticotropin releasing factor.sub.2 receptors (CRF.sub.2R) and regulate or potentially regulate skeletal muscle mass or function in vivo are disclosed. Also disclosed are screening methods for identifying compounds that prolong or augment the activation of CRF.sub.2Rs or of CRF.sub.2R signal transduction pathways, increase CRF.sub.2R or increase CRF expression are provided. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising CRF.sub.2R agonists, antibodies to CRF.sub.2R and methods for increasing skeletal muscle mass or function or for the treatment of skeletal muscle atrophy using CRF.sub.2R as the target for intervention and methods for treatment of muscular dystrophies are described.