The DNA sequences of human and rat CRF.sub.2.alpha. receptor promoters are
disclosed. Certain functional fragments of the human CRF.sub.2.alpha.
receptor promoter are also disclosed. Further disclosed are a method of
identifying functional fragments of human and rat CRF.sub.2.alpha.
receptor promoters and a method of identifying agents that can alter the
activity of the human or rat CRF.sub.2.alpha. receptor promoter.