The present invention relates to Constitutive Triple Response-like (CTR1-like) nucleic acid sequences and the sugar and lipid metabolism regulator proteins encoded by the said nucleic acid sequences. Further, the present invention relates to the use of the aforementioned nucleic acid sequences and proteins in transgenic plants. In particular, the invention is directed to methods for manipulating sugar-related compounds and for increasing oil level and altering the fatty acid composition in plants and seeds. The invention further relates to methods of using these novel plant polypeptides to stimulate plant growth and/or to increase yield and/or composition of seed storage compounds.