The invention relates to an antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof which
binds to the CC chemokine receptor GPR-9-6 and blocks the binding of a ligand (e.g.,
TECK) to the receptor. The invention also relates to a method of identifying agents
(molecules, compounds) which can bind to GPR-9-6 and inhibit the binding of a ligand
(e.g., TECK) and/or modulate a function of GPR-9-6. The invention further relates
to a method of modulating a function of GPR-9-6, and to the use of the antibodies,
antigen-binding fragments and agents identified by the method of the invention
in research, therapeutic, prophylactic and diagnostic methods.