Herein is described the methods and compositions for modulation of Rhamm, also known as CD 186, and its effects on wound repair, muscle differentiation, bone density and adipogeneisis through its ability to regulate mesenchymal stem cell differentiation. Compositions and methods are provided for blocking Rhamm function for selectively increasing subcutaneous, but not, visceral fat. Compositions and methods for modulating Rhamm in wound repair are also described.