What's Happening At The
McGowan Institute?
McGowan Institute?
September 2003 | VOL. 9 | www.McGowan.pitt.edu
GRANTS AWARDED TO RESEARCHERS
5-year $2.3 Million Grant to Develop High-Speed, Depth-Resolved Imager
Guy
Salama is the lead investigator on a new Bioengineering Research
Partnership (BRP) to develop a High-Speed, Depth-Resolved Imager
(HSDRI) to map electrical activity or intracellular free Ca2+
transients inside the myocardium of perfused hearts. The partnership
consists of 3 groups: Dr. Guy Salama will focus on the development
of the instrument and apply the new technology to problems in
cardiac electrophysiology that remain unresolved due to a lack
of 3-D information.
At Carnegie-Mellon University, Drs. Alan Waggoner, Director of the Center for Light Microscope Imaging and Biotechnology (CLMIB)) and Lauren Ernst will develop optical probes (voltage-sensitive and Ca2+ indicator dyes) with long excitation and emission wavelengths to improve tissue penetration and reduce light scattering from the myocardium. Dr. Fred Lanni (at CLMIB) will provide the theoretical and engineering expertise to develop and refine the HSDRI.
Activation maps of the atrio-ventricular node (AVN) in 3-D will help us answer basic questions regarding the precise inputs to the node (fast and slow pathways), mechanisms of AVN reentry, Wenckebach periodicity and Wolf-Parkinson syndrome. Fast, depth-resolved images of voltage and Ca2+ is expected to be a powerful new tool that will have a wide range of applications in cardiac electrophysiology and can be extended to neuronal networks and other organ systems. The current focus is on the heart because therein lies salient problems that are ready to be addressed by this new technology. However, the wide range of possible applications may lead to the commercialization of new optical probes and 3-D imager.
Sacks and Collaborators receive $1.75 million
Congratulations to Professor Sacks; he and his collaborators have received four new awards with a total value of $1.75 million. The new grant summaries follow:
-
“Fluid-Structure Simulation for Prosthetic Heart Valves”; NIH/NHLBI; Co-investigator with K.B. Chandran, U. Iowa
Summary: Mechanical and biological tissue valve prostheses have been used as replacement for diseased natural heart valves for over four decades. Even though patients with implanted valves lead a relatively normal life, thrombus deposition and subsequent embolic complications encountered with mechanical valve implants require the patients to have long-term anticoagulant therapy. Implanted tissue valves fail due to calcification and fatigue failure and require replacement after an average of 10-12 years with associated risks of multiple surgeries. In vitro experimental studies and flow simulations published to date have yielded valuable information on possible relationship between the dynamic stresses developed during the valve function and the associated problems, but the knowledge gained is still incomplete. With the advent of high-speed computational capabilities and development of computational fluid dynamic and structural analysis capabilities, computational simulation of valve function can provide valuable information on the valve dynamics and abnormal stresses developed during a cardiac cycle and such detailed information is otherwise unavailable with experimental tools alone. The long-term goal of these studies is to develop an accurate, robust, and physiologically realistic numerical model capable of simulating tissue valve dynamics. The model can aid in design changes and the development of new designs in order to improve the functional characteristics of the valves. The simulation can also be potentially extended to analyze the optimal function of the native human aortic and mitral valves. An understanding of the stresses developed on the leaflets and the nature of flow dynamics past the native valves will have potential applications in the development of tissue engineered heart valves as well.
- “Biocompatible Heterograft Biomaterials”;
NIH/NHLBI; Co-investigator with R.J. Levy, U. Penn
Summary: The Sacks’ group has shown that ethanol pretreatment inhibits calcification of glutaraldehyde pretreated bioprosthetic heart valves fabricated from either porcine aortic valves or bovine pericardium. The most common cause of bioprosthetic heart valve failure in clinical implants is cuspal calcification. Our ethanol discoveries have led to a successful new anti-calcification approach that is currently in clinical use. An ethanol pretreated stent mounted bioprosthesis using our technology has been approved for clinical use in Europe, and similarly two novel stentless ethanol pretreated bioprostheses are in multi-center clinical trials in the United States. However, ethanol pretreatment does not completely inhibit bioprosthetic cuspal calcification, and has no effect on bioprosthetic aortic wall calcification, a complication affecting stentless valve designs. To address this problem, research in the Sacks’laboratory has led to the synthesis of a novel protein crosslinking reagent, triglycidyl amine (TGA), for preparing calcification resistant bioprostheses. Thus, the overall hypothesis of this proposal is that TGA crosslinking and related reactions, including those with bisphosphonates, inhibits bioprosthetic calcification due to major modifications of the structural proteins of the extracellular matrix (ECM). This results in cell-ECM interactions that confer not only calcification resistance, but enhanced biocompatibility, and stabile biomechanical properties.
- “Functional Tissue Engineering for Stress Incontinence”;
NIH; Co-investigator with Michael B. Chancellor
Summary: Utilizing techniques developed in the Sacks’ laboratory, the study will mount a systematic in vitro and in vivo physiological and biomechanical analysis of muscle stem cell based tissue engineering treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). SUI is a significant medical problem affecting approximately 25 million American women1. Despite the high prevalence of SUI, there is very little treatment-oriented research utilizing tissue engineering techniques. The research will develop a truly physiologic sling, not from synthetic or cadaveric tissue, but rather an engineered, functional stem cell muscle scaffold that can be implanted to repair a damaged urethral sphincter. By reengineering the deficient urinary sphincter through functional tissue engineering, we plan to significantly improve the treatment of SUI. We want to strongly emphasize that our research is in complete compliance with the federal guidelines on embryonic stem cell research. These stem cells have not been obtained from embryos (animal or human) or cell lines of embryonic stem cells.
- “Cardiopulmonary Organ Engineering – Core
C (Biomechanics)”; NIH/NHLBI; Co-investigator with William
Wagner
Summary: The aim of this proposal is to design solutions for vascular, cardiac, and pulmonary organ failure by building interactive teams of researchers focused on specific aspects of cardiopulmonary organ engineering. We will focus our efforts on three projects: a tissue engineered blood vessel, a myocardial patch, and a biohybrid lung. The assembled research teams will function as cores of expertise that address common tasks associated with all three projects. Five research cores will be established in the following areas: 1) matrix synthesis and surface modification, 2) precursor cell isolation and characterization, 3) biomechanical testing and conditioning, 4) animal model development, and 5) construct assessment.
Michalopoulos Receives Funding For Prostrate Cancer Study
The National Cancer Institute granted $650,840 to George Michalopoulos of the medical school's pathology department for the project, "Molecular Reclassification of Prostate Cancer," aimed at improving the classification used for making decisions about prostate cancer treatments. More
BOROVETZ SERVES AS CO-CHAIR OF GORDON CONFERENCE ON ASSISTED CIRCULATION
Harvey
Borovetz, Deputy Director - Artificial Organs and Medical Devices
at the McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Chair
of the Bioengineering Department is the Co-Chairman of the Gordon
Conference on Assisted Circulation, held at Big Sky, MT. The
Conference is focusing on the science and clinical indications
for circulatory assist and replacement. Biological and mechanical
systems will be considered with adjuvant therapy including cell,
gene and protein therapies. Presentations reviewed the history
of assisted circulation; evaluate the strengths and limitations
of current pulsatile flow devices; critique the potential of
rotary-based blood pumps as an alternative-to-cardiac transplantation
and for destination therapy; critically evaluate the potential
of biological-based cardiac assistance; and the role of assisted
circulation in an era of exploding knowledge regarding the molecular
basis of heart failure. University of Pittsburgh faculty participation
included Robert Kormos, Mary Amanda Dew, and William Wagner.
More
FACULTY HIGHLIGHTS
Bioreactor Buys Liver Patients Time
The August issue of Pitt Med highlights the work of Jörg Gerlach who joined conducted his research at the Humboldt University in Berlin prior to joining the McGowan Institute in January
2003. Dr. Gerlach has developed and patented a “bioreactor”
that can provide temporary liver support outside the body. The
patient’s plasma circulates through the machine, which
contains nearly two pounds of human liver cells able to perform
many of the functions of a normal liver. Gerlach hopes that
the bioreactor will buy patients time for their own livers to
recover or for a donor organ to be found. In his preliminary
clinical trials in Berlin he has been able to successfully support
liver function until transplantation in eight test patients.
More
Reloaded Biology: Sorting Out the Pieces That Make Us Tick
The cover story in the August Issue of Pitt Med reviews the achievements of Ivet Bahar, Professor of Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry,
School of Medicine. Dr. Bahar notes that when the DNA sequencing
process first began more than a decade ago scientists thought
they would eventually be able to go directly from the data they
would glean to creation of new medical treatments. “We
soon realized that this gene-to-drug paradigm was not true,”
says Bahar. “It’s not sufficient to know which genes
exist or which are involved in a specific disease. We need to
understand the machinery of the proteins encoded by these genes.”
When protein molecules, say, fold in the wrong place, cells
go haywire. Many diseases are now believed to be caused by proteins
that have the wrong structures. Some proteins trigger cascade
reactions that cause cells to malfunction and multiply uncontrollably…such
as cancer.
Bahar’s research in recent years has touched on a wide variety of fields that all fall under the general label of “computational biology.” Her studies—and similar work being done elsewhere—could one day lead to better treatments for the enormous variety of disorders caused by protein misfolding and aggregations as well as for diseases caused by protein signaling and regulation mishaps (which are instrumental to the development of cancer). More
"BIOBLAST" IS SUCCESSFUL
BioBlast is a quarterly, networking event for everyone in Pittsburgh's
biotech community. Students, scientists, physicians, entrepreneurs
and investors come together to trade news, make deals and meet
each other. This is a great forum to search out new binding
sites and pathways.
The Institute hosted BioBlast on September 17th, at the McGowan Laboratory Building, 3025 East Carson Street. Approximately 100 participants enjoyed the evening of networking, renewing existing friendships and meeting new friends.
BioBlast is co-hosted by LaunchCyte, the Limbach Entrepreneurial Center at UPCI, the McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, the Pittsburgh Life Sciences Greenhouse, and the Pittsburgh Technology Council. The event is sponsored by Kirkpatrick & Lockhart, LLP.
Grant Application Opportunities
Selected Funding Opportunities: Interest Individuals Affiliated With McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine
Questions:Contact Lindsay Rodzwicz, Pre-Award Grants Administrator of the McGowan Institute, at rodzwiczlj@msx.upmc.eduor 412-235-5157.
Title: Pathogenesis and Treatment
of Lymphedema
Release Date: December 14, 2000 (see addendum NOT-CA-03-037)
PA Number: PA-01-035
CFDA #s: 93.837 and 93.839 (NHLBI), 93.865 (NICHD), 93.846 (NIAMS), 93.396 (NCI)
URL: http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-01-035.html
Release Date: December 14, 2000 (see addendum NOT-CA-03-037)
PA Number: PA-01-035
CFDA #s: 93.837 and 93.839 (NHLBI), 93.865 (NICHD), 93.846 (NIAMS), 93.396 (NCI)
URL: http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-01-035.html
This Program Announcement expires on December
31, 2003, unless reissued.
This PA uses the “modular grant”
and “just-in-time” concepts. It includes detailed
modifications to standard application instructions that must
be used when preparing applications in response to this PA.
Purpose: The National Heart,
Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), National Institute of Child
Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institute of
Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), and
the National Cancer Institute (NCI) invite qualified researchers
to submit applications for research project grants to investigate
the pathogenesis and new treatments for primary and secondary
lymphedema. The purpose of this program announcement is to stimulate
research on the biology of the lymphatic system, and to characterize
at the molecular, cellular, tissue, organ, and intact organism
levels, the pathophysiologic mechanisms that cause the disease,
and to discover new therapeutic interventions. The scope of
this research includes developmental biology and genetics of
the lymphatic system to identify and characterize genes important
for its organization and regulation. Such knowledge will help
to improve early diagnosis of affected individuals, the choice
and timing of treatment, and genetic counseling. Research is
also needed on the pathophysiology of the disorders of skin
and subcutaneous tissue secondary to chronic lymphedema, and
lymphedema which results from cancers and cancer treatment,
with an ultimate goal to develop more targeted and effective
therapies.Application Procedures: Applications
are to be submitted on the grant application form PHS 398 (rev.
4/98) and will be accepted at the standard application deadlines
as indicated in the application kit. Application kits are available
at most institutional offices of sponsored research and may
be obtained from the Division of Extramural Outreach and Information
Resources, National Institutes of Health, 6701 Rockledge Drive,
MSC 7910, Bethesda, MD 20892 7910, telephone 301/435-0714, email:
GrantsInfo@nih.gov.
Addendum to above PA:
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Title: Pathogenesis and Treatment
of Lymphedema
Release Date: August 25, 2003
Notice: NOT-CA-03-037
URL: http://grants1.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-CA-03-037.html
This addendum is to inform potential applicants
of a change in personnel to clarify any issues or questions
under Program Announcement PA-01-035. The change is as follows:Release Date: August 25, 2003
Notice: NOT-CA-03-037
URL: http://grants1.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-CA-03-037.html
Inquiries: Inquiries are encouraged. The opportunity to clarify any issues or questions from potential applicants is welcome.
Direct inquiries regarding this notice and programmatic issues concerning cancer to:
Suresh Mohla, Ph.D.
Division of Cancer Biology
National Cancer Institute
6130 Executive Boulevard, EPN 5038
Rockville, MD 20892
Telephone: 301 435 1878
Fax: 301 480-0864
E-mail: mohlas@mail.nih.gov
All other provisions of PA-01-035 remain unchanged.
Division of Cancer Biology
National Cancer Institute
6130 Executive Boulevard, EPN 5038
Rockville, MD 20892
Telephone: 301 435 1878
Fax: 301 480-0864
E-mail: mohlas@mail.nih.gov
All other provisions of PA-01-035 remain unchanged.
Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)/NIH/NIA
Title: Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Centers
Release Date: August 21, 2003
RFA Number: RFA-AG-04-002
CFDA #: 93.866
URL: http://grants1.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-AG-04-002.html
Letter of Intent Receipt Date: November 17, 2003
Application Receipt Date: December 17, 2003
Purpose: The general goal of the Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Centers (OAIC) program is to increase scientific knowledge that will lead to better ways to maintain or restore independence in older persons. Specifically, NIA's goal for the OAIC program is to develop or strengthen awardee institutions' programs that focus, and sustain progress, on a key aging research area. The means by which the OAIC program seeks to achieve this goal is provision of resources to institutions to help them address key research problems, technologic limitations, and needs for trained researchers, on issues in which progress could contribute to greater independence for older persons.
National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)
Title: Efficacy of Interventions
Promoting Entry Into Biomedical Research Careers
Release Date: August 5, 2003
RFA Number: RFA-GM-03-011
CFDA #s: 93.859, 93.864
URL: http://grants1.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-GM-03-011.html<
Letter of Intent Receipt Date: October 17, 2003
Application Receipt Date: November 17, 2003
Purpose: The goal of this RFA is to support research that will test assumptions regarding the effectiveness of interventions that are intended to increase interest, motivation and preparedness for careers in biomedical research, with a particular interest in those interventions specifically designed to increase the number of underrepresented minority students entering careers in biomedical and behavioral research. Since it is likely that comparable interventions are applicable to students universally, the proposed research need not be restricted to underrepresented minority students. Indeed, comparative research may well be particularly illuminating and is, therefore, encouraged.
Research Objectives: The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recognizes that there is a significant under-representation of minority scientists engaged in biomedical and behavioral research in the U.S. Consequently, over the past 30 years the NIGMS, other institutes of the NIH, other agencies of the federal government and private foundations have instituted a variety of programs designed to redress this disparity. To accomplish the goal, the programs supported three main types of objectives: a) increasing the participant pool generally by stimulating students' interest at multiple stages, starting as early as middle school; b) retaining the participant pool via remediation, support services such as tutoring and financial aid, bridging programs, and activities designed to motivate; and c) strengthening the participant pool via acquisition of knowledge, academic enrichment and development of skills deemed important for success as a scientist. The types of interventions supported by the various programs have almost always included financial support and encouragement to underrepresented minority undergraduate and graduate students to participate in biomedical research in a variety of academic institutions. Emphasis has also been placed on providing financial support and encouragement directly to institutions themselves, with the expectation they would use their enhanced capacity and resources to encourage and sustain biomedical research among both faculty and students.
Some consistent beliefs underlying these interventions have been: 1) when students are provided the opportunity to engage in state-of-the-art biomedical research, with appropriate facilities, support and mentorship, their appetite will be whetted to enter a career in biomedical research; and 2) once focused, they will show improvement in academic and other skills needed to pursue successfully a biomedical research career. Based upon these beliefs, one type of program component that has been supported is early exposure to laboratory research and a research-experienced mentor.
Because these beliefs are consistent with the experience of many successful scientists and make intuitive sense to many, diverse programmatic interventions have evolved over the years. These include creation of intra-institutional student-researcher environments, on- or off-campus summer research experiences, attendance at professional scientific conferences and research seminars, tutoring in "gate-keeper" courses (e.g., organic chemistry, calculus), subsidy of GRE preparatory courses, post-baccalaureate transitional research experiences (pre-graduate school), and individual research fellowship support or training-grant-type support.
To date, however, the use of these interventions has been based more on educated assumptions by the stakeholders than on systematic analysis. A notable exception is the Merit Workshop at the University of California, Berkeley, which grew out of Uri Treisman's observations of study behaviors of at-risk students that challenged prevailing assumptions (1992, College Mathematics Journal 23(5), 362-372). Nevertheless, there is a need for research designed to develop an empirical base of evidence upon which new interventions can be developed, and existing interventions can be improved.
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR)
Title: Comparative Genetics of Structural Birth Defects
Release Date: August 7, 2003
RFA Number: RFA-HD-03-024
CFDA #s: 93.865 (NICHD), 93.121 (NIDCR)
URL: http://grants1.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-HD-03-024.html
Release Date: August 5, 2003
RFA Number: RFA-GM-03-011
CFDA #s: 93.859, 93.864
URL: http://grants1.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-GM-03-011.html<
Letter of Intent Receipt Date: October 17, 2003
Application Receipt Date: November 17, 2003
Purpose: The goal of this RFA is to support research that will test assumptions regarding the effectiveness of interventions that are intended to increase interest, motivation and preparedness for careers in biomedical research, with a particular interest in those interventions specifically designed to increase the number of underrepresented minority students entering careers in biomedical and behavioral research. Since it is likely that comparable interventions are applicable to students universally, the proposed research need not be restricted to underrepresented minority students. Indeed, comparative research may well be particularly illuminating and is, therefore, encouraged.
Research Objectives: The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recognizes that there is a significant under-representation of minority scientists engaged in biomedical and behavioral research in the U.S. Consequently, over the past 30 years the NIGMS, other institutes of the NIH, other agencies of the federal government and private foundations have instituted a variety of programs designed to redress this disparity. To accomplish the goal, the programs supported three main types of objectives: a) increasing the participant pool generally by stimulating students' interest at multiple stages, starting as early as middle school; b) retaining the participant pool via remediation, support services such as tutoring and financial aid, bridging programs, and activities designed to motivate; and c) strengthening the participant pool via acquisition of knowledge, academic enrichment and development of skills deemed important for success as a scientist. The types of interventions supported by the various programs have almost always included financial support and encouragement to underrepresented minority undergraduate and graduate students to participate in biomedical research in a variety of academic institutions. Emphasis has also been placed on providing financial support and encouragement directly to institutions themselves, with the expectation they would use their enhanced capacity and resources to encourage and sustain biomedical research among both faculty and students.
Some consistent beliefs underlying these interventions have been: 1) when students are provided the opportunity to engage in state-of-the-art biomedical research, with appropriate facilities, support and mentorship, their appetite will be whetted to enter a career in biomedical research; and 2) once focused, they will show improvement in academic and other skills needed to pursue successfully a biomedical research career. Based upon these beliefs, one type of program component that has been supported is early exposure to laboratory research and a research-experienced mentor.
Because these beliefs are consistent with the experience of many successful scientists and make intuitive sense to many, diverse programmatic interventions have evolved over the years. These include creation of intra-institutional student-researcher environments, on- or off-campus summer research experiences, attendance at professional scientific conferences and research seminars, tutoring in "gate-keeper" courses (e.g., organic chemistry, calculus), subsidy of GRE preparatory courses, post-baccalaureate transitional research experiences (pre-graduate school), and individual research fellowship support or training-grant-type support.
To date, however, the use of these interventions has been based more on educated assumptions by the stakeholders than on systematic analysis. A notable exception is the Merit Workshop at the University of California, Berkeley, which grew out of Uri Treisman's observations of study behaviors of at-risk students that challenged prevailing assumptions (1992, College Mathematics Journal 23(5), 362-372). Nevertheless, there is a need for research designed to develop an empirical base of evidence upon which new interventions can be developed, and existing interventions can be improved.
National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR)
Title: Comparative Genetics of Structural Birth Defects
Release Date: August 7, 2003
RFA Number: RFA-HD-03-024
CFDA #s: 93.865 (NICHD), 93.121 (NIDCR)
URL: http://grants1.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-HD-03-024.html
Letter of Intent Receipt Date:
October 20, 2003
Application Receipt Date: November 19, 2003
Purpose: The genomic sequences for a number of invertebrates and vertebrates, including man, are completed or nearing completion. For the developmental biology community to maximize its ability to efficiently and effectively use this publicly available data, systematic research in the areas of functional and comparative genomics needs to be stimulated. A key component of functional and comparative studies must be examinations of a given genetic pathway in more than one animal model. These comparisons, under controlled conditions, will allow us to elucidate which genes, gene products, genetic networks, and molecular cascades are conserved and which are of critical importance in normal and abnormal development. The purpose of this RFA is to solicit applications or competitive supplements for individual research projects that will examine a family of genes or gene products, known to be important in development, in two or more animal models. These approaches will help us to understand which genes, gene products and modifications are of general importance in increasing our understanding of normal and abnormal development, as well as allow us to catalog such differences and similarities. These studies will enable us to better understand the faithfulness with which developmental processes are conserved across species.
Research Objectives:
Background
Animal models have long provided fertile ground for research into the causes of structural birth defects. Studies supported by the NICHD and NIDCR on human as well as on mammalian models such as mouse and rat, and nonmammalian models, such as chick, zebrafish, frog, fly, and worm, have made major inroads into increasing our knowledge of normal and abnormal development. While the arena of developmental biology is rapidly advancing, and collaborative, translational efforts are increasing, there still is a lack of cross-fertilization between scientists who are trained in and continue to use a single animal model system. This is mirrored in the physical disconnect that is seen in animal model-specific databases, which may not be user-friendly to scientists outside that community.
The field of comparative genomics examines a given family of genes and/or gene products in several organisms to identify commonalities and differences. In general, comparisons between different animals are drawn from studies that were performed by different groups of investigators in different settings and experimental conditions. From these kinds of studies, we have instances where 1) a gene is expressed in similar spatial and temporal patterns in two animal models, 2) a highly conserved region shows divergent gene expression patterns either temporally, spatially or both in two animal models, or 3) a gene shown to be important in one model has no ortholog in another model. For developmental biology to continue advancing, we need researchers with the appreciation for and understanding of a number of animal models. We need to be able to determine which of the genes, gene products, and developmental cascades are important to pursue. By taking advantage of comparative genomics approaches, we will have the framework to analyze and prioritize in a meaningful way, the vast amount of information generated by the sequencing efforts. With the upcoming completion of the sequencing of a number of genomes, the need for scientists with the ability to take advantage of comparative genomics has become more urgent.
Institute of Circulatory and Respiratory Health (ICRH),
Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)
Title: Inflammation and Thrombosis
Release Date: August 5, 2003
RFA Number: RFA-HL-04-005
CFDA #s: 93.837, 93.838, 93.839
URL: http://grants1.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-HL-04-005.html
Letter of Intent Receipt Date: December 22, 2003
Application Receipt Date: January 22, 2004
Purpose: The processes of inflammation and thrombosis interact at multiple points and there is abundant evidence to suggest that there are mechanisms common to both these processes. The possibility exists that anti-inflammatory agents could be utilized to manage thrombotic processes underlying disease. The goal of this initiative is to identify molecular targets and develop novel therapeutic agents towards better management of thrombotic disorders. Thus, NHLBI and the Institute of Circulatory and Respiratory Health (ICRH) invite applications that utilize innovative research approaches to the molecular and cellular interactions between the hemostatic and inflammatory systems to identify novel therapeutic agents and that translate this knowledge to preclinical research.
Research Objectives: Formation of a blood clot resulting in ischemia may precipitate cardiovascular diseases and stroke, which are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the United States and Canada. Rapid response and early intervention with thrombolytic, antiplatelet, and anticoagulant drugs have contributed to reduce the mortality of these patients. However, the anticoagulants in use are decades old and there is a need to apply new scientific knowledge and improve therapy of thrombotic disorders.
The proteins of the coagulation cascade and the inflammatory molecules work in concert to mediate the adhesion of leukocytes, platelets, and the endothelium that occurs during thrombotic and inflammatory complications. In addition to their well established role in hemostasis and thrombosis, it is now recognized that platelets play a pivotal role in orchestrating the process of inflammation. Activated platelets shed CD40 ligand (CD40L) that directly activates the inflammatory process on the endothelium. The concentration of soluble CD40L in serum increases in acute coronary thrombosis and induces tissue factor expression on monocytes. Not only do platelets contain about 90 percent of the CD40L in the body, they also produce key inflammatory mediators such as platelet-derived growth factors, thrombospondin, P selectin and interleukins. CD40L can also activate platelets through the integrin, GP IIb/IIIa, and appears to be necessary for stabilizing the arterial thrombi. Similarly, activated protein C (APC), traditionally considered to be an anticoagulant protein, has now been shown to have antiinflammatory and antiapoptotic properties and was demonstrated to be neuroprotective in an animal model of stroke. Thus platelets and clotting proteins which are essential in hemostasis/thrombosis have indeed a dual role as initiators and modulators of the inflammatory process.
Title: Specialized Programs of Research Excellence (SPOREs) in Human Cancer for the Year 2004
Release Date: August 4, 2003
PA Number: PAR-03-158
CFDA #s: 93.397, 93.121
URL:
Expiration Date: October 2, 2004, unless reissued.
Letter of Intent Receipt Date:
Myeloma and Genitourinary Cancer SPOREs: April 1, 2004
Breast and Gynecological Cancer SPOREs: August 1, 2004
Application Receipt Date:
Myeloma and Genitourinary Cancer SPOREs: June 1, 2004
Breast and Gynecological Cancer SPOREs: October 1, 2004
Purpose: The Organ Systems Branch of the Office of the Deputy Director for Extramural Science at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) invites grant applications (P50) for Specialized Programs of Research Excellence (SPORE) in organ-specific cancers. Applicant institutions must be able to conduct the highest quality, balanced, translational research on the prevention, etiology, screening, diagnosis, and treatment of a specific organ-site cancer. SPORE applicants are judged on their current and potential ability to move basic research findings into a clinical or population setting or, conversely, to take a finding from the clinic/population and expand upon it in the laboratory. A SPORE must develop and maintain human cancer tissue resources for the particular organ-site that will benefit translational research; foster extended collaborations in critical areas of research need with laboratory and clinical scientists within the institution, as well as in other institutions; and participate with other SPOREs on a regular basis in sharing positive and negative findings, assessing scientific progress in the field, identifying new research opportunities, and promoting Inter-SPORE collaborations. Each SPORE and the "network" of SPOREs are expected to conduct research that will have the most immediate impact possible on reducing incidence and mortality of human cancer. A SPORE should support a mix of basic and clinical researchers whose formal interactive and collaborative research efforts will result in new approaches for early detection, diagnosis, therapy, prevention and control of human cancer. The SPORE mechanism is not intended to support basic research to the exclusion of clinical research or vice versa.
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Title: Type 1 Diabetes – Rapid Access to Intervention Development (T1D-RAID)
Release Date: August 26, 2003
Notice: NOT-DK-03-007
URL: http://grants1.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-DK-03-007.html
Receipt Dates: There are two receipt dates for requests for T1D-RAID support per year, November 1 and April 1. Current requests must be received by Nov. 1, 2003, with all materials submitted directly to the office listed below; do not submit materials to the Center for Scientific Review.
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), in collaboration with the National Cancer Institute (NCI), invites requests for use of the resources of NCI's Rapid Access to Intervention Development (RAID) to foster development of new therapeutics for type 1 diabetes (T1D-RAID). T1D-RAID is a special mechanism to make available to academic investigators the necessary resources to move novel molecules and concepts from bench to bedside more rapidly and effectively. Services that would be available include for example: production, bulk supply, GMP manufacturing, formulation and toxicology.
T1D-RAID will make available, on a competitive basis, the preclinical development contract resources of NCI's Developmental Therapeutics Program. T1D-RAID is not a grant program. The goal of T1D-RAID is the rapid movement of novel molecules and concepts from the laboratory to the clinic for proof-of-principle clinical trials, using NCI's contract research mechanisms. T1D-RAID will assist investigators who submit successful requests by providing any (or all) of the preclinical development steps that may be obstacles to clinical translation. Suitable agents for T1D-RAID will include small molecules, biologics or vaccines for the treatment or prevention of type 1 diabetes and its complications.
For information on process, procedure and review criteria of requests for T1D-RAID resources, visit
http://www.niddk.nih.gov/fund/diabetesspecialfunds/T1D-RAID/.
Inquiries are encouraged, and the opportunity to clarify issues or questions is welcome. Academic investigators may have collaborations with small-business partners and still qualify for T1D-RAID funding. Non-profit organizations other than universities may also submit T1D-RAID Requests. Please note that a maximum of two distinct requests for support per investigator can be submitted for each receipt date.
Inquiries regarding this initiative may be directed to:
T1D-RAID
Myrlene Staten, MD
Senior Advisor, Diabetes Research Translation
Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolic Diseases, NIDDK, NIH
6707 Democracy Boulevard
Bethesda, MD 20852-5460
Tel: 301-402-7886; Fax: 301-480-3503
T1D-RAID@niddk.nih.gov
Title: Model Validation for Antiepileptogenic and Resistant Epilepsy Therapies
Release Date: August 21, 2003
RFA Number: RFA-NS-04-002
CFDA #: 93.853
URL: http://grants1.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-NS-04-002.html
Letter of Intent Receipt Date: October 21, 2003
Application Receipt Date: November 21, 2003
Purpose: The NINDS invites applications to validate animal models of pharmacoresistant epilepsy or intervention in the epileptogenic processes leading to chronic disease. The goal of this grant program is to validate proposed models of pharmacoresistant epilepsy and/or antiepileptogenic models for use in drug discovery. It will establish baseline data and introduce new methods for evaluating the therapeutic potential of novel compounds for the treatment of epilepsy.
Research Objectives:
Background
This solicitation is derived from a congressionally and community supported concept identified as one of the epilepsy benchmarks. The concept was defined at the White House initiated Curing Epilepsy conference held in March 2000 and two follow-up NIH Workshops: Models for Epilepsy and Epileptogenesis held in March 2001 and Identification and Characterization of Animal Models of Human Therapy Resistance and Epileptogenesis held September 26-27, 2002.
This RFA is designed to validate selected screening paradigms for pharmacoresistant epilepsy or for intervention in the disease processes that lead to chronic epilepsy (antiepileptogenesis). Due to the similarity expected in eliciting an epilepsy-like state (spontaneous recurrent seizures) either chemically or electrically induced models of status epilepticus are acceptable. Proposals for the pharmacologic evaluation of drugs in resistant and/or epileptogenic models are being sought. This activity will characterize the effects of standard anticonvulsants in representative models. Results will be shared with the research community. The outcome of this work will provide important data for future comparative assessments of new mechanisms related to disease processes. Applicants may focus separately on either of the two areas of interest but are not restricted from submitting proposals for both.
Title: Pilot and Feasibility Program in Human Islet Biology
Release Date: July 14, 2003
RFA: DK-03-021
CFDA #: 93.847
URL: http://grants1.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-DK-03-021.html
Letter of Intent Receipt Dates: October 20, 2003 and June 20, 2004
Application Receipt Dates: November 20, 2003 and July 20, 2004
Purpose: Much of our understanding of the basic biology and function of the beta cell and the pancreatic islet comes from studies of immortalized cell lines and mouse tissue. However, differences in the general structure and organization of mouse and human islets have been identified, and it remains uncertain if these structural differences reflect functional differences as well. With the variable success in islet transplantation and the inability to use in vitro data to reliably predict islet engraftment and function, it is important to learn all that we can about the structure, organization, and signaling properties of human islets, and to compare and contrast these findings with those reported with rodent models of islet function used to date. The information gained from these studies should increase our ability to develop new reagents for use in in vivo imaging studies of the human islet, to develop fingerprinting assays for use in predicting human islet transplant success, and to further develop cellular therapies for potential use in the treatment of type 1 diabetes.
Research Objectives:
Background
Over the last 5 years the NIDDK has supported a number of initiatives designed to increase our basic knowledge of the development, structure, and function of the pancreatic beta cell, with the ultimate goal of improving treatment of diabetes and its complications.
In 2002, the NIDDK sponsored a workshop "Beta Cell Biology in the 21st Century: Engineering a Pathway to Greater Understanding". An important goal of the workshop was to identify areas of research opportunity in the adult pancreatic beta cell. In 2003, an NIH advisory meeting focused on pancreatic islet transplantation was also convened. Two research priorities that emerged from these meetings were the need to obtain basic information about the general architecture and organization of human islets, and to develop a better functional definition of the characteristics of normal isolated human beta cells and human beta cells in their natural milieu in the islet. To date, much of the information generated has come from cell lines derived from insulin-producing tumors (e.g., mouse and rat insulinomas, in modified neuroendocrine cells (e.g., mouse AtT20 cells, with mouse and rat islets/beta cells, and to a lesser degree from monkey islets. However, much of this important basic information is lacking for human beta cells and human pancreatic islets.
In an effort to increase our understanding of the pancreatic beta cell, NIDDK has supported efforts to gather expression data from both mouse and human beta cells, and to generate cell type-specific cDNA tools for the research community. The Endocrine Pancreas Consortium Database (http://www.cbil.upenn.edu/EPConDB) now contains information on the genes expressed in cells of the pancreas identified by dbEST libraries from pancreatic tissues including 12 mouse and 7 human libraries generated by the Consortium. Microarray chips based on the collection of 13,910 human pancreatic genes are presently being developed, and will be distributed in 2004. The information in this database, along with the cDNA reagents generated, should aid researchers in pursuing novel lines of investigation in the human beta cell.
Other recent initiatives of the NIDDK, the National Center for Research Resources (NCRR), and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International resulted in the establishment of multiple centers throughout the country that isolate and distribute human islets for islet transplantation, clinical studies aimed at improving cell viability and engraftment, and for basic research purposes. To learn more about obtaining islets for basic research purposes the coordinating center for the Islet Cell Resources may be contacted (see http://www.infosci.coh.org/icr/).
Title: Research on Research Integrity
Release Date: May 30, 2003
RFA: NS-04-001
CFDA #s: 93.279 (NIDA), 93.361 (NINR), 93.853 (NINDS), 93.226 (AHRQ)
URL: http://grants2.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-NS-04-001.html
Letter of Intent Receipt Date: October 14, 2003
Application Receipt Date: November 14, 2003
Purpose: The Office of Research Integrity (ORI, DHHS), the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS, NIH), the National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR, NIH), the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA, NIH), and the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ, DHHS) invite applications to support research on research integrity.
The purpose of the proposed grant program is to foster empirical research on societal, organizational, group, and individual factors that affect, both positively and negatively, integrity in research. Proposals must have clear relevance to biomedical, behavioral and health services research. Applicants are strongly encouraged to take into consideration problems or issues that are relevant to the missions of DHHS, NIH, or specific NIH institutes and programs.
For the purposes of this RFA, "research" is interpreted broadly to include societal, organizational, group, and individual aspects of the enterprise. "Integrity" is understood as "the use of honest and verifiable methods in proposing, performing, and evaluating research in reporting research results with particular attention to adherence to rules, regulations, guidelines, and commonly accepted professional codes or norms."
NIDCR/NIEHS/NIGMS/NIMH/NINDS
Title: Exploratory/Developmental (R21) Bioengineering Research Grants (EBRG)
Release Date: January 16, 2003
PA Number: PA-03-058 (See NOT-HL-03-007 for update.) (Note: per NOT-HL-03-007, NHLBI will accept applications for this PA for the June 1, 2003 deadline only. Thereafter, NHLBI will not participate in this PA. This is the only information included in the update.)
CFDA #s: 93.286, 93.287, 93.394, 93.395, 93.396, 93.306, 93.867, 93.172, 93.837, 93.838, 93.839, 93.866, 93.273, 93.855, 93.856, 93.846, 93.864, 93.865, 93.929, 93.279, 93.173, 93.121, 93.847, 93.848, 93.849, 93.113, 93.821, 93.859, 93.862, 93.242, 93.853, 93.361, and 93.879
URL: http://grants2.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-03-058.html
Application Receipt Dates: February 1, June 1 and October 1
Expiration Date: January 01, 2006, unless reissued.
Purpose: Participating Institutes and Centers (ICs) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) invite applications for Exploratory/Developmental Bioengineering Research Grants (EBRG) to support innovative, high risk/high impact bioengineering research in new areas that are lacking preliminary testing or development. This research can explore approaches and concepts new to a particular substantive area; research and development of new technologies, techniques or methods; or initial research and development of data upon which significant future research may be built.
While this program announcement (PA) is intended to encourage innovation and high impact research, and while minimal preliminary data are expected to be described in the application, applications should clearly indicate the significance of the proposed work and that the proposed research and/or development is scientifically sound, that the qualifications of the investigators are appropriate, and that resources available to the investigators are adequate.
Research Objectives:
The objective of this PA is to invite applications in exploratory or developmental bioengineering research (EBRG). The EBRG can support: 1) innovative, high-risk research, for which preliminary results have not yet been obtained; 2) exploration of new approaches or concepts to a particular substantive area; 3) research and development of new technologies, techniques or methods; or 4) initial research and development of data upon which significant future research may be built.
The EBRG will support exploratory or developmental bioengineering research that is not appropriate for the R01 grant mechanism. While the core review criteria of 'significance', 'approach', 'innovation', 'investigator', and 'facilities' are retained, the balance between risk, benefit, and the cost of the research is shifted toward accepting a significant risk of failure for a potential great benefit. The EBRG is appropriate for early stages of research or for investigating new ideas where risk is high but potential significance is also high and where the research needed to make a decision about proceeding to a larger scale R01 effort is moderate in terms of time and money. A simple scenario would be a situation in which an investigator studying gene delivery conceives of a completely new, but unproven way to deliver genes. If the justification for the idea is solid, the feasibility of the idea can be effectively evaluated (with the EBRG), and if the potential significance is high then the feasibility could be supported in the absence of extensive preliminary results.
Areas of Bioengineering Research for an EBRG: Bioengineering is defined as follows: Bioengineering integrates physical, chemical, or mathematical sciences and engineering principles for the study of biology, medicine, behavior, or health. It advances fundamental concepts, creates knowledge from the molecular to the organ systems level, and develops innovative biologics, materials, processes, implants, devices, and informatics approaches for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disease, for patient rehabilitation, and for improving health. A few examples of bioengineering areas of relevance to the mission of Institutes and Centers (ICs) are identified below. This list is illustrative only; it is not intended to be exclusive.
Examples of Bioengineering Research:
Title: Rapid Access to Intervention Development (RAID)
Release Date: June 19, 2003
Notice: NOT-CA-03-032
URL: (http://www.nci.nih.gov/)
The National Cancer Institute is accepting proposals for the following initiative: Rapid Access to Intervention Development (RAID). RAID will make available to academic investigators, on a competitive basis, the preclinical development contract resources of NCI's Developmental Therapeutics Program. RAID is not a grant program. The goal of RAID is the rapid movement of novel molecules and concepts from the laboratory to the clinic for proof-of principle clinical trials, using NCI's contract research mechanisms. RAID will assist investigators who submit successful proposals by providing any (or all) of the preclinical development steps that may be obstacles to clinical translation. These may include, for example, production, bulk supply, GMP manufacturing, formulation and toxicology. Suitable agents for RAID will include small molecules, biologics or vaccines.
There are two receipt dates for requests for RAID support per year, February 1 and August 1. Current requests must be received by August 1, 2003, with all materials submitted directly to the office listed below; do not submit materials to the Center for Scientific Review.
For information on process and procedure of requests for RAID resources, visit the DTP web site http://dtp.nci.nih.gov/. Inquiries are encouraged, the opportunity to clarify issues or questions is welcome. Academic investigators may have collaborations with small-business partners and still qualify for RAID funding. Non-profit organizations other than universities may also submit RAID applications. Please note that a maximum of two distinct requests for support per investigator can be submitted for each receipt date. Inquiries regarding this initiative may be directed to:
RAID
Office of Associate Director
Developmental Therapeutics Program
National Cancer Institute
Executive Plaza North Building, Suite 8022
6130 Executive Blvd.
Rockville, MD 20852
Tel: 301-496-8720; Fax: 301-402-0831
raid@dtpax2.ncifcrf.gov
Title: Independent Scientist Development Award (K02): Addendum
Release Date: April 28, 2003
Notice: NOT-EB-03-006
URL: (http://www.nibib.nih.gov/)
This addendum is to add the National Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB) as a participating institute on program announcement PA-00-020, which was released in the NIH guide for grants and contracts on December 2, 1999 at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-00-020.html.
The mission of the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB) is to improve health by supporting and conducting interdisciplinary research and training in biomedical imaging and bioengineering. This is achieved through supporting the development and translation of emerging technologies that enable fundamental biomedical discoveries and facilitate early disease detection and management. More specifically, the NIBIB plans, conducts and supports an integrated and coordinated program of research and research training that can be applied to an individual or to a broad spectrum of biological processes, disorders, and diseases and across organ systems. The research promoted and supported by NIBIB is strongly synergistic with the other NIH Institutes and Centers as well as across government agencies, and has the potential for direct positive medical application. Ultimately, NIBIB seeks to translate research findings from the laboratory into practical solutions that will benefit the public health.
For more information about the different NIBIB programs, see our website at (http://www.nibib.nih.gov)
Salary limits on career awards (such as the K02) are not uniform throughout the NIH and are determined independently by each component of the NIH. Currently, the NIBIB allows a maximum requested salary of $90,000.
In addition, the K02 requires that the candidate must have independent, peer-reviewed research support at the time the K02 award is made.
The following are NIBIB contacts:
Direct inquiries regarding scientific and programmatic issues to:
Meredith D. Temple-O'Connor, Ph.D.
National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering
National Institutes of Health/DHHS
6707 Democracy Blvd., Suite 200, MSC 5477
Bethesda, MD 20892
Telephone: 301-451-4792
Fax: 301-480-4973
Email: templem@mail.nih.gov
Title: Advances in Polycystic Kidney Disease
Release Date: February 24, 2003
PA Number: PA-03-073
CFDA #: 93.849
URL: http://grants2.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-03-073.html
Expiration Date: November 1, 2006, unless reissued.
Purpose: The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) through its Division of Kidney, Urologic and Hematologic Diseases (DKUHD) invites experienced and new investigators to submit research grant applications to pursue basic and applied investigations in order to better understand the etiology and pathogenesis of Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), in both its autosomal dominant and autosomal recessive forms. Such applications may examine the genetic determinants, and cellular and molecular mechanisms, which disrupt normal kidney function; mechanisms of cyst formation and growth; development of experimental model systems; development of markers of disease progression; and the identification of innovative therapeutic interventions and gene targeted strategies to prevent progressive renal insufficiency due to this disorder. The intent of this Program Announcement (PA) is to intensify investigator-initiated research, to attract new investigators to the field, and to increase interdisciplinary research. The ultimate aim is to facilitate PKD-related research studies, which will provide the basis for new therapeutic approaches.
Title: Flexible System to Advance Innovative Research for Cancer Drug Discovery by Small Businesses (FLAIR) – SBIR/STTR Initiative
Release Date: February 25, 2003
PA Number: PAR-03-074
CFDA #: 93.395
URL: http://grants2.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PAR-03-074.html
Letter of Intent Receipt Dates: June 16, 2003 and October 17, 2003
Application Receipt Dates: July 14, 2003 and November 14, 2003
Expiration Date: November 17, 2003, unless reissued.
This Program Announcement (PAR) replaces PA-01-091, which was published in the NIH Guide on May 7, 2001.
Purpose: Discovery and development of new drugs and biologicals for cancer treatment, including gene therapy and drug delivery approaches, normally involve lengthy and costly projects. The multiple components of the overall process including discovery, efficacy testing, development of lead agents, toxicology and pharmacology, Investigational New Drug Application (IND) filing to the Federal Drug Administration (FDA), and clinical evaluation, may require years and several million dollars.
The small business community is an active participant in the cancer therapy discovery effort. Thus it is important that their innovative ideas be supported. The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs were developed to support innovative research with a commercial intent by small businesses. This PAR provides a flexible system within the SBIR and STTR programs to accommodate the special needs of the complex discovery and development process, at least partially, from basic discovery through proof of principle demonstration in clinical trials. It is hoped that this initiative will stimulate drug discovery research efforts in the small business community. It will provide opportunity to small businesses to develop new treatments for rare cancers that are often overlooked because of small market considerations.
Title: Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Awards for Individual Postdoctoral Fellows (F32)
Release Date: February 6, 2003
PA Number: PA-03-067
CFDA #s: 93.121, 93.172, 93.173, 93.272, 93.278, 93.282, 93.306, 93.361, 93.398, 93.821, 93.837-93.839, 93.846-93.849, 93.853-93.856, 93.859, 93.862-93.867, 93.880, 93.894, and 93.929
URL: http://grants2.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-03-067.html
Expiration Date: February 2006, unless reissued.
This program announcement supersedes PA-00-104,
which appeared in the NIH Guide on June 1, 2000.Application Receipt Date: November 19, 2003
Purpose: The genomic sequences for a number of invertebrates and vertebrates, including man, are completed or nearing completion. For the developmental biology community to maximize its ability to efficiently and effectively use this publicly available data, systematic research in the areas of functional and comparative genomics needs to be stimulated. A key component of functional and comparative studies must be examinations of a given genetic pathway in more than one animal model. These comparisons, under controlled conditions, will allow us to elucidate which genes, gene products, genetic networks, and molecular cascades are conserved and which are of critical importance in normal and abnormal development. The purpose of this RFA is to solicit applications or competitive supplements for individual research projects that will examine a family of genes or gene products, known to be important in development, in two or more animal models. These approaches will help us to understand which genes, gene products and modifications are of general importance in increasing our understanding of normal and abnormal development, as well as allow us to catalog such differences and similarities. These studies will enable us to better understand the faithfulness with which developmental processes are conserved across species.
Research Objectives:
Background
Animal models have long provided fertile ground for research into the causes of structural birth defects. Studies supported by the NICHD and NIDCR on human as well as on mammalian models such as mouse and rat, and nonmammalian models, such as chick, zebrafish, frog, fly, and worm, have made major inroads into increasing our knowledge of normal and abnormal development. While the arena of developmental biology is rapidly advancing, and collaborative, translational efforts are increasing, there still is a lack of cross-fertilization between scientists who are trained in and continue to use a single animal model system. This is mirrored in the physical disconnect that is seen in animal model-specific databases, which may not be user-friendly to scientists outside that community.
The field of comparative genomics examines a given family of genes and/or gene products in several organisms to identify commonalities and differences. In general, comparisons between different animals are drawn from studies that were performed by different groups of investigators in different settings and experimental conditions. From these kinds of studies, we have instances where 1) a gene is expressed in similar spatial and temporal patterns in two animal models, 2) a highly conserved region shows divergent gene expression patterns either temporally, spatially or both in two animal models, or 3) a gene shown to be important in one model has no ortholog in another model. For developmental biology to continue advancing, we need researchers with the appreciation for and understanding of a number of animal models. We need to be able to determine which of the genes, gene products, and developmental cascades are important to pursue. By taking advantage of comparative genomics approaches, we will have the framework to analyze and prioritize in a meaningful way, the vast amount of information generated by the sequencing efforts. With the upcoming completion of the sequencing of a number of genomes, the need for scientists with the ability to take advantage of comparative genomics has become more urgent.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Institute of Circulatory and Respiratory Health (ICRH),
Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)
Title: Inflammation and Thrombosis
Release Date: August 5, 2003
RFA Number: RFA-HL-04-005
CFDA #s: 93.837, 93.838, 93.839
URL: http://grants1.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-HL-04-005.html
Letter of Intent Receipt Date: December 22, 2003
Application Receipt Date: January 22, 2004
Purpose: The processes of inflammation and thrombosis interact at multiple points and there is abundant evidence to suggest that there are mechanisms common to both these processes. The possibility exists that anti-inflammatory agents could be utilized to manage thrombotic processes underlying disease. The goal of this initiative is to identify molecular targets and develop novel therapeutic agents towards better management of thrombotic disorders. Thus, NHLBI and the Institute of Circulatory and Respiratory Health (ICRH) invite applications that utilize innovative research approaches to the molecular and cellular interactions between the hemostatic and inflammatory systems to identify novel therapeutic agents and that translate this knowledge to preclinical research.
Research Objectives: Formation of a blood clot resulting in ischemia may precipitate cardiovascular diseases and stroke, which are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the United States and Canada. Rapid response and early intervention with thrombolytic, antiplatelet, and anticoagulant drugs have contributed to reduce the mortality of these patients. However, the anticoagulants in use are decades old and there is a need to apply new scientific knowledge and improve therapy of thrombotic disorders.
The proteins of the coagulation cascade and the inflammatory molecules work in concert to mediate the adhesion of leukocytes, platelets, and the endothelium that occurs during thrombotic and inflammatory complications. In addition to their well established role in hemostasis and thrombosis, it is now recognized that platelets play a pivotal role in orchestrating the process of inflammation. Activated platelets shed CD40 ligand (CD40L) that directly activates the inflammatory process on the endothelium. The concentration of soluble CD40L in serum increases in acute coronary thrombosis and induces tissue factor expression on monocytes. Not only do platelets contain about 90 percent of the CD40L in the body, they also produce key inflammatory mediators such as platelet-derived growth factors, thrombospondin, P selectin and interleukins. CD40L can also activate platelets through the integrin, GP IIb/IIIa, and appears to be necessary for stabilizing the arterial thrombi. Similarly, activated protein C (APC), traditionally considered to be an anticoagulant protein, has now been shown to have antiinflammatory and antiapoptotic properties and was demonstrated to be neuroprotective in an animal model of stroke. Thus platelets and clotting proteins which are essential in hemostasis/thrombosis have indeed a dual role as initiators and modulators of the inflammatory process.
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Title: Specialized Programs of Research Excellence (SPOREs) in Human Cancer for the Year 2004
Release Date: August 4, 2003
PA Number: PAR-03-158
CFDA #s: 93.397, 93.121
URL:
Expiration Date: October 2, 2004, unless reissued.
Letter of Intent Receipt Date:
Myeloma and Genitourinary Cancer SPOREs: April 1, 2004
Breast and Gynecological Cancer SPOREs: August 1, 2004
Application Receipt Date:
Myeloma and Genitourinary Cancer SPOREs: June 1, 2004
Breast and Gynecological Cancer SPOREs: October 1, 2004
Purpose: The Organ Systems Branch of the Office of the Deputy Director for Extramural Science at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) invites grant applications (P50) for Specialized Programs of Research Excellence (SPORE) in organ-specific cancers. Applicant institutions must be able to conduct the highest quality, balanced, translational research on the prevention, etiology, screening, diagnosis, and treatment of a specific organ-site cancer. SPORE applicants are judged on their current and potential ability to move basic research findings into a clinical or population setting or, conversely, to take a finding from the clinic/population and expand upon it in the laboratory. A SPORE must develop and maintain human cancer tissue resources for the particular organ-site that will benefit translational research; foster extended collaborations in critical areas of research need with laboratory and clinical scientists within the institution, as well as in other institutions; and participate with other SPOREs on a regular basis in sharing positive and negative findings, assessing scientific progress in the field, identifying new research opportunities, and promoting Inter-SPORE collaborations. Each SPORE and the "network" of SPOREs are expected to conduct research that will have the most immediate impact possible on reducing incidence and mortality of human cancer. A SPORE should support a mix of basic and clinical researchers whose formal interactive and collaborative research efforts will result in new approaches for early detection, diagnosis, therapy, prevention and control of human cancer. The SPORE mechanism is not intended to support basic research to the exclusion of clinical research or vice versa.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Title: Type 1 Diabetes – Rapid Access to Intervention Development (T1D-RAID)
Release Date: August 26, 2003
Notice: NOT-DK-03-007
URL: http://grants1.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-DK-03-007.html
Receipt Dates: There are two receipt dates for requests for T1D-RAID support per year, November 1 and April 1. Current requests must be received by Nov. 1, 2003, with all materials submitted directly to the office listed below; do not submit materials to the Center for Scientific Review.
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), in collaboration with the National Cancer Institute (NCI), invites requests for use of the resources of NCI's Rapid Access to Intervention Development (RAID) to foster development of new therapeutics for type 1 diabetes (T1D-RAID). T1D-RAID is a special mechanism to make available to academic investigators the necessary resources to move novel molecules and concepts from bench to bedside more rapidly and effectively. Services that would be available include for example: production, bulk supply, GMP manufacturing, formulation and toxicology.
T1D-RAID will make available, on a competitive basis, the preclinical development contract resources of NCI's Developmental Therapeutics Program. T1D-RAID is not a grant program. The goal of T1D-RAID is the rapid movement of novel molecules and concepts from the laboratory to the clinic for proof-of-principle clinical trials, using NCI's contract research mechanisms. T1D-RAID will assist investigators who submit successful requests by providing any (or all) of the preclinical development steps that may be obstacles to clinical translation. Suitable agents for T1D-RAID will include small molecules, biologics or vaccines for the treatment or prevention of type 1 diabetes and its complications.
For information on process, procedure and review criteria of requests for T1D-RAID resources, visit
http://www.niddk.nih.gov/fund/diabetesspecialfunds/T1D-RAID/.
Inquiries are encouraged, and the opportunity to clarify issues or questions is welcome. Academic investigators may have collaborations with small-business partners and still qualify for T1D-RAID funding. Non-profit organizations other than universities may also submit T1D-RAID Requests. Please note that a maximum of two distinct requests for support per investigator can be submitted for each receipt date.
Inquiries regarding this initiative may be directed to:
T1D-RAID
Myrlene Staten, MD
Senior Advisor, Diabetes Research Translation
Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolic Diseases, NIDDK, NIH
6707 Democracy Boulevard
Bethesda, MD 20852-5460
Tel: 301-402-7886; Fax: 301-480-3503
T1D-RAID@niddk.nih.gov
National Institutes of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Title: Model Validation for Antiepileptogenic and Resistant Epilepsy Therapies
Release Date: August 21, 2003
RFA Number: RFA-NS-04-002
CFDA #: 93.853
URL: http://grants1.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-NS-04-002.html
Letter of Intent Receipt Date: October 21, 2003
Application Receipt Date: November 21, 2003
Purpose: The NINDS invites applications to validate animal models of pharmacoresistant epilepsy or intervention in the epileptogenic processes leading to chronic disease. The goal of this grant program is to validate proposed models of pharmacoresistant epilepsy and/or antiepileptogenic models for use in drug discovery. It will establish baseline data and introduce new methods for evaluating the therapeutic potential of novel compounds for the treatment of epilepsy.
Research Objectives:
Background
This solicitation is derived from a congressionally and community supported concept identified as one of the epilepsy benchmarks. The concept was defined at the White House initiated Curing Epilepsy conference held in March 2000 and two follow-up NIH Workshops: Models for Epilepsy and Epileptogenesis held in March 2001 and Identification and Characterization of Animal Models of Human Therapy Resistance and Epileptogenesis held September 26-27, 2002.
This RFA is designed to validate selected screening paradigms for pharmacoresistant epilepsy or for intervention in the disease processes that lead to chronic epilepsy (antiepileptogenesis). Due to the similarity expected in eliciting an epilepsy-like state (spontaneous recurrent seizures) either chemically or electrically induced models of status epilepticus are acceptable. Proposals for the pharmacologic evaluation of drugs in resistant and/or epileptogenic models are being sought. This activity will characterize the effects of standard anticonvulsants in representative models. Results will be shared with the research community. The outcome of this work will provide important data for future comparative assessments of new mechanisms related to disease processes. Applicants may focus separately on either of the two areas of interest but are not restricted from submitting proposals for both.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
Title: Pilot and Feasibility Program in Human Islet Biology
Release Date: July 14, 2003
RFA: DK-03-021
CFDA #: 93.847
URL: http://grants1.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-DK-03-021.html
Letter of Intent Receipt Dates: October 20, 2003 and June 20, 2004
Application Receipt Dates: November 20, 2003 and July 20, 2004
Purpose: Much of our understanding of the basic biology and function of the beta cell and the pancreatic islet comes from studies of immortalized cell lines and mouse tissue. However, differences in the general structure and organization of mouse and human islets have been identified, and it remains uncertain if these structural differences reflect functional differences as well. With the variable success in islet transplantation and the inability to use in vitro data to reliably predict islet engraftment and function, it is important to learn all that we can about the structure, organization, and signaling properties of human islets, and to compare and contrast these findings with those reported with rodent models of islet function used to date. The information gained from these studies should increase our ability to develop new reagents for use in in vivo imaging studies of the human islet, to develop fingerprinting assays for use in predicting human islet transplant success, and to further develop cellular therapies for potential use in the treatment of type 1 diabetes.
Research Objectives:
Background
Over the last 5 years the NIDDK has supported a number of initiatives designed to increase our basic knowledge of the development, structure, and function of the pancreatic beta cell, with the ultimate goal of improving treatment of diabetes and its complications.
In 2002, the NIDDK sponsored a workshop "Beta Cell Biology in the 21st Century: Engineering a Pathway to Greater Understanding". An important goal of the workshop was to identify areas of research opportunity in the adult pancreatic beta cell. In 2003, an NIH advisory meeting focused on pancreatic islet transplantation was also convened. Two research priorities that emerged from these meetings were the need to obtain basic information about the general architecture and organization of human islets, and to develop a better functional definition of the characteristics of normal isolated human beta cells and human beta cells in their natural milieu in the islet. To date, much of the information generated has come from cell lines derived from insulin-producing tumors (e.g., mouse and rat insulinomas, in modified neuroendocrine cells (e.g., mouse AtT20 cells, with mouse and rat islets/beta cells, and to a lesser degree from monkey islets. However, much of this important basic information is lacking for human beta cells and human pancreatic islets.
In an effort to increase our understanding of the pancreatic beta cell, NIDDK has supported efforts to gather expression data from both mouse and human beta cells, and to generate cell type-specific cDNA tools for the research community. The Endocrine Pancreas Consortium Database (http://www.cbil.upenn.edu/EPConDB) now contains information on the genes expressed in cells of the pancreas identified by dbEST libraries from pancreatic tissues including 12 mouse and 7 human libraries generated by the Consortium. Microarray chips based on the collection of 13,910 human pancreatic genes are presently being developed, and will be distributed in 2004. The information in this database, along with the cDNA reagents generated, should aid researchers in pursuing novel lines of investigation in the human beta cell.
Other recent initiatives of the NIDDK, the National Center for Research Resources (NCRR), and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International resulted in the establishment of multiple centers throughout the country that isolate and distribute human islets for islet transplantation, clinical studies aimed at improving cell viability and engraftment, and for basic research purposes. To learn more about obtaining islets for basic research purposes the coordinating center for the Islet Cell Resources may be contacted (see http://www.infosci.coh.org/icr/).
Office of Research Integrity (ORI)/NINDS/NINR/NIDA/AHRQ
Title: Research on Research Integrity
Release Date: May 30, 2003
RFA: NS-04-001
CFDA #s: 93.279 (NIDA), 93.361 (NINR), 93.853 (NINDS), 93.226 (AHRQ)
URL: http://grants2.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-NS-04-001.html
Letter of Intent Receipt Date: October 14, 2003
Application Receipt Date: November 14, 2003
Purpose: The Office of Research Integrity (ORI, DHHS), the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS, NIH), the National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR, NIH), the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA, NIH), and the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ, DHHS) invite applications to support research on research integrity.
The purpose of the proposed grant program is to foster empirical research on societal, organizational, group, and individual factors that affect, both positively and negatively, integrity in research. Proposals must have clear relevance to biomedical, behavioral and health services research. Applicants are strongly encouraged to take into consideration problems or issues that are relevant to the missions of DHHS, NIH, or specific NIH institutes and programs.
For the purposes of this RFA, "research" is interpreted broadly to include societal, organizational, group, and individual aspects of the enterprise. "Integrity" is understood as "the use of honest and verifiable methods in proposing, performing, and evaluating research in reporting research results with particular attention to adherence to rules, regulations, guidelines, and commonly accepted professional codes or norms."
NIH/NCI/NCRR/NEI/NHLBI/NHGRI/NIA/NIAAA/NIAMS/NIBIB/NIDA/NIDCD/
NIDCR/NIEHS/NIGMS/NIMH/NINDS
Title: Exploratory/Developmental (R21) Bioengineering Research Grants (EBRG)
Release Date: January 16, 2003
PA Number: PA-03-058 (See NOT-HL-03-007 for update.) (Note: per NOT-HL-03-007, NHLBI will accept applications for this PA for the June 1, 2003 deadline only. Thereafter, NHLBI will not participate in this PA. This is the only information included in the update.)
CFDA #s: 93.286, 93.287, 93.394, 93.395, 93.396, 93.306, 93.867, 93.172, 93.837, 93.838, 93.839, 93.866, 93.273, 93.855, 93.856, 93.846, 93.864, 93.865, 93.929, 93.279, 93.173, 93.121, 93.847, 93.848, 93.849, 93.113, 93.821, 93.859, 93.862, 93.242, 93.853, 93.361, and 93.879
URL: http://grants2.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-03-058.html
Application Receipt Dates: February 1, June 1 and October 1
Expiration Date: January 01, 2006, unless reissued.
Purpose: Participating Institutes and Centers (ICs) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) invite applications for Exploratory/Developmental Bioengineering Research Grants (EBRG) to support innovative, high risk/high impact bioengineering research in new areas that are lacking preliminary testing or development. This research can explore approaches and concepts new to a particular substantive area; research and development of new technologies, techniques or methods; or initial research and development of data upon which significant future research may be built.
While this program announcement (PA) is intended to encourage innovation and high impact research, and while minimal preliminary data are expected to be described in the application, applications should clearly indicate the significance of the proposed work and that the proposed research and/or development is scientifically sound, that the qualifications of the investigators are appropriate, and that resources available to the investigators are adequate.
Research Objectives:
The objective of this PA is to invite applications in exploratory or developmental bioengineering research (EBRG). The EBRG can support: 1) innovative, high-risk research, for which preliminary results have not yet been obtained; 2) exploration of new approaches or concepts to a particular substantive area; 3) research and development of new technologies, techniques or methods; or 4) initial research and development of data upon which significant future research may be built.
The EBRG will support exploratory or developmental bioengineering research that is not appropriate for the R01 grant mechanism. While the core review criteria of 'significance', 'approach', 'innovation', 'investigator', and 'facilities' are retained, the balance between risk, benefit, and the cost of the research is shifted toward accepting a significant risk of failure for a potential great benefit. The EBRG is appropriate for early stages of research or for investigating new ideas where risk is high but potential significance is also high and where the research needed to make a decision about proceeding to a larger scale R01 effort is moderate in terms of time and money. A simple scenario would be a situation in which an investigator studying gene delivery conceives of a completely new, but unproven way to deliver genes. If the justification for the idea is solid, the feasibility of the idea can be effectively evaluated (with the EBRG), and if the potential significance is high then the feasibility could be supported in the absence of extensive preliminary results.
Areas of Bioengineering Research for an EBRG: Bioengineering is defined as follows: Bioengineering integrates physical, chemical, or mathematical sciences and engineering principles for the study of biology, medicine, behavior, or health. It advances fundamental concepts, creates knowledge from the molecular to the organ systems level, and develops innovative biologics, materials, processes, implants, devices, and informatics approaches for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disease, for patient rehabilitation, and for improving health. A few examples of bioengineering areas of relevance to the mission of Institutes and Centers (ICs) are identified below. This list is illustrative only; it is not intended to be exclusive.
Examples of Bioengineering Research:
-
Development of molecular probes for imaging of structure or function
-
Development of new imaging modalities
-
Development of organ culture systems
-
Development of biomaterials or engineered tissues
-
Development or evaluation of prostheses
-
Development of medical implants, biomembranes, or sensors
-
Development of tools for robotic or non-invasive surgery
-
Development of microarrays or other tools for genomics
-
Development of combinatorial or other techniques for high-throughput screening
-
Development of techniques for bioprocessing
-
Research on the biomechanics of tissue injury or repair, and standing or walking
-
Research on the interactions between biomaterials and living systems
-
Research on drug, gene, or cellular therapeutic delivery systems
-
Research on the interaction of magnetic or other fields with biological systems
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Title: Rapid Access to Intervention Development (RAID)
Release Date: June 19, 2003
Notice: NOT-CA-03-032
URL: (http://www.nci.nih.gov/)
The National Cancer Institute is accepting proposals for the following initiative: Rapid Access to Intervention Development (RAID). RAID will make available to academic investigators, on a competitive basis, the preclinical development contract resources of NCI's Developmental Therapeutics Program. RAID is not a grant program. The goal of RAID is the rapid movement of novel molecules and concepts from the laboratory to the clinic for proof-of principle clinical trials, using NCI's contract research mechanisms. RAID will assist investigators who submit successful proposals by providing any (or all) of the preclinical development steps that may be obstacles to clinical translation. These may include, for example, production, bulk supply, GMP manufacturing, formulation and toxicology. Suitable agents for RAID will include small molecules, biologics or vaccines.
There are two receipt dates for requests for RAID support per year, February 1 and August 1. Current requests must be received by August 1, 2003, with all materials submitted directly to the office listed below; do not submit materials to the Center for Scientific Review.
For information on process and procedure of requests for RAID resources, visit the DTP web site http://dtp.nci.nih.gov/. Inquiries are encouraged, the opportunity to clarify issues or questions is welcome. Academic investigators may have collaborations with small-business partners and still qualify for RAID funding. Non-profit organizations other than universities may also submit RAID applications. Please note that a maximum of two distinct requests for support per investigator can be submitted for each receipt date. Inquiries regarding this initiative may be directed to:
RAID
Office of Associate Director
Developmental Therapeutics Program
National Cancer Institute
Executive Plaza North Building, Suite 8022
6130 Executive Blvd.
Rockville, MD 20852
Tel: 301-496-8720; Fax: 301-402-0831
raid@dtpax2.ncifcrf.gov
National Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB)
Title: Independent Scientist Development Award (K02): Addendum
Release Date: April 28, 2003
Notice: NOT-EB-03-006
URL: (http://www.nibib.nih.gov/)
This addendum is to add the National Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB) as a participating institute on program announcement PA-00-020, which was released in the NIH guide for grants and contracts on December 2, 1999 at http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-00-020.html.
The mission of the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB) is to improve health by supporting and conducting interdisciplinary research and training in biomedical imaging and bioengineering. This is achieved through supporting the development and translation of emerging technologies that enable fundamental biomedical discoveries and facilitate early disease detection and management. More specifically, the NIBIB plans, conducts and supports an integrated and coordinated program of research and research training that can be applied to an individual or to a broad spectrum of biological processes, disorders, and diseases and across organ systems. The research promoted and supported by NIBIB is strongly synergistic with the other NIH Institutes and Centers as well as across government agencies, and has the potential for direct positive medical application. Ultimately, NIBIB seeks to translate research findings from the laboratory into practical solutions that will benefit the public health.
For more information about the different NIBIB programs, see our website at (http://www.nibib.nih.gov)
Salary limits on career awards (such as the K02) are not uniform throughout the NIH and are determined independently by each component of the NIH. Currently, the NIBIB allows a maximum requested salary of $90,000.
In addition, the K02 requires that the candidate must have independent, peer-reviewed research support at the time the K02 award is made.
The following are NIBIB contacts:
Direct inquiries regarding scientific and programmatic issues to:
Meredith D. Temple-O'Connor, Ph.D.
National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering
National Institutes of Health/DHHS
6707 Democracy Blvd., Suite 200, MSC 5477
Bethesda, MD 20892
Telephone: 301-451-4792
Fax: 301-480-4973
Email: templem@mail.nih.gov
Direct inquiries regarding fiscal matters to:
Florence Turska
Grants Management Specialist
Grants Management Branch
National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering
National Institutes of Health/DHHS
6707 Democracy Blvd., Suite 900, MSC 5469
Bethesda, MD 20892
Telephone: (301) 496-9314
FAX: (301) 480-4974
Email: ft7p@nih.gov
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
Title: Advances in Polycystic Kidney Disease
Release Date: February 24, 2003
PA Number: PA-03-073
CFDA #: 93.849
URL: http://grants2.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-03-073.html
Expiration Date: November 1, 2006, unless reissued.
Purpose: The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) through its Division of Kidney, Urologic and Hematologic Diseases (DKUHD) invites experienced and new investigators to submit research grant applications to pursue basic and applied investigations in order to better understand the etiology and pathogenesis of Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), in both its autosomal dominant and autosomal recessive forms. Such applications may examine the genetic determinants, and cellular and molecular mechanisms, which disrupt normal kidney function; mechanisms of cyst formation and growth; development of experimental model systems; development of markers of disease progression; and the identification of innovative therapeutic interventions and gene targeted strategies to prevent progressive renal insufficiency due to this disorder. The intent of this Program Announcement (PA) is to intensify investigator-initiated research, to attract new investigators to the field, and to increase interdisciplinary research. The ultimate aim is to facilitate PKD-related research studies, which will provide the basis for new therapeutic approaches.
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Title: Flexible System to Advance Innovative Research for Cancer Drug Discovery by Small Businesses (FLAIR) – SBIR/STTR Initiative
Release Date: February 25, 2003
PA Number: PAR-03-074
CFDA #: 93.395
URL: http://grants2.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PAR-03-074.html
Letter of Intent Receipt Dates: June 16, 2003 and October 17, 2003
Application Receipt Dates: July 14, 2003 and November 14, 2003
Expiration Date: November 17, 2003, unless reissued.
This Program Announcement (PAR) replaces PA-01-091, which was published in the NIH Guide on May 7, 2001.
Purpose: Discovery and development of new drugs and biologicals for cancer treatment, including gene therapy and drug delivery approaches, normally involve lengthy and costly projects. The multiple components of the overall process including discovery, efficacy testing, development of lead agents, toxicology and pharmacology, Investigational New Drug Application (IND) filing to the Federal Drug Administration (FDA), and clinical evaluation, may require years and several million dollars.
The small business community is an active participant in the cancer therapy discovery effort. Thus it is important that their innovative ideas be supported. The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs were developed to support innovative research with a commercial intent by small businesses. This PAR provides a flexible system within the SBIR and STTR programs to accommodate the special needs of the complex discovery and development process, at least partially, from basic discovery through proof of principle demonstration in clinical trials. It is hoped that this initiative will stimulate drug discovery research efforts in the small business community. It will provide opportunity to small businesses to develop new treatments for rare cancers that are often overlooked because of small market considerations.
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Title: Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Awards for Individual Postdoctoral Fellows (F32)
Release Date: February 6, 2003
PA Number: PA-03-067
CFDA #s: 93.121, 93.172, 93.173, 93.272, 93.278, 93.282, 93.306, 93.361, 93.398, 93.821, 93.837-93.839, 93.846-93.849, 93.853-93.856, 93.859, 93.862-93.867, 93.880, 93.894, and 93.929
URL: http://grants2.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-03-067.html
Expiration Date: February 2006, unless reissued.
Purpose: The Congress of the United States enacted the National Research Service Act (NRSA) Program in 1974 to help ensure that a diverse pool of highly trained scientists will be available in adequate numbers and in appropriate research areas to carry out the Nation's biomedical and behavioral research agenda. In 2002, the National Research Service Award Program was renamed the Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award Program as a tribute to Dr. Kirschstein's years of exceptional service to the Nation. Additional details related to this legislative change are available at http://grants.nih.gov/training/news.htm. Under this congressional authority, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) awards individual postdoctoral fellowships (F32) to promising applicants with the potential to become productive, independent investigators in fields related to the mission of the NIH constituent institutes and centers.
FIC/NCI/NEI/NHLBI/NIA/NIBIB/NICHD/NIDA/NIEHS/NIGMS/
NIMH/NINDS/OBSSR/ODS/ORWH
Title: Global Health Research
Initiative Program for New Foreign Investigators
Release Date: May 16, 2003
PA Number: PAR-03-118
CFDA #s: 93.989, 93.279, 93.286, 93.287, 93.853, 93.867
URL: http://grants2.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PAR-03-118.html
Letter of Intent Receipt Dates: July 25, 2003; July 25, 2004; July 25, 2005
Application Receipt Dates: August 25, 2003; August 25, 2004; August 25, 2005
Expiration Date: April 16, 2006, unless reissued.
Purpose: This Program Announcement (PA) is intended to promote productive re-entry of NIH trained foreign investigators from low-income countries into their home countries as part of a broader program to enhance the scientific research infrastructure in developing countries, to stimulate research on a wide variety of high priority health-related issues in these countries, and to advance NIH efforts to address health issues of global import. The specific goal of this initiative is to provide funding opportunities for the increasing pool of foreign biomedical and behavioral scientists, clinical investigators, nurses, and other health professionals with state-of-the-art knowledge of research methods to advance critical issues in global health upon their return to their home countries. After their term of research training, developing country participants supported by this PA are expected to continue independent and productive scientific careers, including expert training and consultation and/or research of biomedical issues within their home institutions.
Title: NIGMS Exploratory Studies for High Impact/High Risk Research
Release Date: April 8, 2003
PA Number: PA-03-100
CFDA #s: 93.309, 93.821, 93.859, 93.862
URL: http://grants2.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-03-100.html
Expiration Date: July 30, 2006
Purpose: The purpose of this PA is to re-announce the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) program to support exploratory, high impact/high risk research last issued as PA-97-049 in March of 1997. This program attempts to broaden the base of inquiry in fundamental biomedical research by encouraging applications for research projects that involve an especially high degree of innovation and novelty, such that their potential for highly significant outcomes may be difficult to judge by the standard criteria used in evaluating R01 proposals. Research projects proposed under this program may lack preliminary data establishing feasibility, but should present the opportunity for conceptual or technological breakthroughs.
Research Objectives:
The National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) seeks to encourage fundamental research projects that fall into the following classes: projects to test novel and significant hypotheses for which there is scant precedent or preliminary data and which, if confirmed, would have a substantial impact on current thinking; projects to explore a new experimental organism or system in order to address particularly difficult basic biomedical questions for which the new system would be particularly advantageous; projects to develop innovative techniques or methodologies with wide applicability to the study of basic biomedical problems.
The projects must support the NIGMS mission as detailed in the publication, "Divisions and Grant Award Mechanisms," available from the NIGMS Public Information Office (301/496-7301); additional information can be found on the NIGMS World Wide Web home page at www.nigms.nih.gov. In brief, NIGMS supports research in (a) cell biology and molecular biophysics, including basic studies of the structure and function of cells, cellular components, and the biological macromolecules that make up these components; (b) fundamental mechanisms of inheritance and development that typically utilize non-human model systems; (c) basic studies in pharmacology, physiology, biochemistry, bio-related chemistry and anesthesiology; (d) research in bioinformatics and computational biology, basic studies in biotechnology and metabolic engineering; (e) development and refinement of bioanalytical methods and instrumentation; and (f) trauma and burn injury.
Release Date: February 10, 2003
PA Number: PA-03-069
CFDA #s: 93.866 and 93.837
URL: http://grants2.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-03-069.html
Expiration Date: March 1, 2006
Purpose: This Program Announcement (PA) is a new initiative to support research to understand how mutations in the gene for lamin A/C affect nuclear structure, thus leading to both dysfunction of the nuclear envelope, and depending on the mutation, Hutchinson-Gilford syndrome in humans (Eriksson et al., manuscript in preparation). Lamins A and C are coded by a single developmentally regulated gene designated LMNA; lamin C is a splice variant and lacks the carboxyl terminus present in lamin A. At least 6 other rare human disorders due to lamin A/C mutations (known collectively as laminopathies) besides HGS have been described so far: Emery–Dreifuss muscular dystrophy (Bonne et al., 1999), dilated cardiomyopathy (Fatkin et al., 1999), familial partial lipodystrophy (Shackleton et al., 2000), limb girdle muscular dystrophy (Muchir et al., 2000), Charcot-Marie-Tooth disorder type 2 (De Sandre-Giovanni et al., 2002), and mandibuloacral dysplasia (Novelli et al., 2002). These disorders and their relationship to LMNA mutations have been reviewed recently {Burke and Stewart (2002)}, and Hutchinson (2002) has reviewed the function of lamins in the nuclear envelope.
Release Date: May 16, 2003
PA Number: PAR-03-118
CFDA #s: 93.989, 93.279, 93.286, 93.287, 93.853, 93.867
URL: http://grants2.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PAR-03-118.html
Letter of Intent Receipt Dates: July 25, 2003; July 25, 2004; July 25, 2005
Application Receipt Dates: August 25, 2003; August 25, 2004; August 25, 2005
Expiration Date: April 16, 2006, unless reissued.
Purpose: This Program Announcement (PA) is intended to promote productive re-entry of NIH trained foreign investigators from low-income countries into their home countries as part of a broader program to enhance the scientific research infrastructure in developing countries, to stimulate research on a wide variety of high priority health-related issues in these countries, and to advance NIH efforts to address health issues of global import. The specific goal of this initiative is to provide funding opportunities for the increasing pool of foreign biomedical and behavioral scientists, clinical investigators, nurses, and other health professionals with state-of-the-art knowledge of research methods to advance critical issues in global health upon their return to their home countries. After their term of research training, developing country participants supported by this PA are expected to continue independent and productive scientific careers, including expert training and consultation and/or research of biomedical issues within their home institutions.
National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
Title: NIGMS Exploratory Studies for High Impact/High Risk Research
Release Date: April 8, 2003
PA Number: PA-03-100
CFDA #s: 93.309, 93.821, 93.859, 93.862
URL: http://grants2.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-03-100.html
Expiration Date: July 30, 2006
Purpose: The purpose of this PA is to re-announce the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) program to support exploratory, high impact/high risk research last issued as PA-97-049 in March of 1997. This program attempts to broaden the base of inquiry in fundamental biomedical research by encouraging applications for research projects that involve an especially high degree of innovation and novelty, such that their potential for highly significant outcomes may be difficult to judge by the standard criteria used in evaluating R01 proposals. Research projects proposed under this program may lack preliminary data establishing feasibility, but should present the opportunity for conceptual or technological breakthroughs.
Research Objectives:
The National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) seeks to encourage fundamental research projects that fall into the following classes: projects to test novel and significant hypotheses for which there is scant precedent or preliminary data and which, if confirmed, would have a substantial impact on current thinking; projects to explore a new experimental organism or system in order to address particularly difficult basic biomedical questions for which the new system would be particularly advantageous; projects to develop innovative techniques or methodologies with wide applicability to the study of basic biomedical problems.
The projects must support the NIGMS mission as detailed in the publication, "Divisions and Grant Award Mechanisms," available from the NIGMS Public Information Office (301/496-7301); additional information can be found on the NIGMS World Wide Web home page at www.nigms.nih.gov. In brief, NIGMS supports research in (a) cell biology and molecular biophysics, including basic studies of the structure and function of cells, cellular components, and the biological macromolecules that make up these components; (b) fundamental mechanisms of inheritance and development that typically utilize non-human model systems; (c) basic studies in pharmacology, physiology, biochemistry, bio-related chemistry and anesthesiology; (d) research in bioinformatics and computational biology, basic studies in biotechnology and metabolic engineering; (e) development and refinement of bioanalytical methods and instrumentation; and (f) trauma and burn injury.
NationalInstitute on Aging (NIA) and National, Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Title: The Biological Basis of Hutchinson-Gilford Syndrome (HGS): Relationship to Mutations in the Lamin A/C Gene (LMNA) and to Other Known LaminopathiesRelease Date: February 10, 2003
PA Number: PA-03-069
CFDA #s: 93.866 and 93.837
URL: http://grants2.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-03-069.html
Expiration Date: March 1, 2006
Purpose: This Program Announcement (PA) is a new initiative to support research to understand how mutations in the gene for lamin A/C affect nuclear structure, thus leading to both dysfunction of the nuclear envelope, and depending on the mutation, Hutchinson-Gilford syndrome in humans (Eriksson et al., manuscript in preparation). Lamins A and C are coded by a single developmentally regulated gene designated LMNA; lamin C is a splice variant and lacks the carboxyl terminus present in lamin A. At least 6 other rare human disorders due to lamin A/C mutations (known collectively as laminopathies) besides HGS have been described so far: Emery–Dreifuss muscular dystrophy (Bonne et al., 1999), dilated cardiomyopathy (Fatkin et al., 1999), familial partial lipodystrophy (Shackleton et al., 2000), limb girdle muscular dystrophy (Muchir et al., 2000), Charcot-Marie-Tooth disorder type 2 (De Sandre-Giovanni et al., 2002), and mandibuloacral dysplasia (Novelli et al., 2002). These disorders and their relationship to LMNA mutations have been reviewed recently {Burke and Stewart (2002)}, and Hutchinson (2002) has reviewed the function of lamins in the nuclear envelope.
NIDDK/NIAID/NEI/NHLBI/NINDS/NINR/ODS
Title: Innovative Partnerships in Type 1
Diabetes Research
Release Date: June 26, 2003
RFA #: DK-03-015
CFDA #s: 93.847, 93.855, 93.867, 93.837,
93.853 and 93.361.
URL: http://grants2.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-DK-03-015.html
Letter of Intent Receipt Date: October 16,
2003
Application Receipt Date: November 13, 2003
Purpose: The National Institute
of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), National
Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National
Eye Institute (NEI), National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
(NHLBI), National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
(NINDS), National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR), and
the Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS) invite applications
to support collaborations between investigators who focus their
research efforts on type 1 diabetes or its complications and
researchers from other research areas with expertise relevant
to type 1 diabetes research. The purpose of this Request for
Applications (RFA) is to attract new research talent to type
1 diabetes research, strengthen the ongoing efforts of type
1 diabetes researchers by providing access to specialized expertise
or technologies relevant to their research, and facilitate the
formation of interdisciplinary research partnerships to investigate
significant biological and medical problems associated with
type 1 diabetes. Applications should propose collaborative research
partnerships between independent principal investigators, at
least one currently pursuing research relevant to type 1 diabetes
and one (or more) with expertise relevant to some aspect of
type 1 diabetes that is not currently being applied by the investigator
to research on this disease. This RFA encourages type 1 diabetes
researchers to act as "talent scouts" by identifying
and recruiting leading scientists with relevant scientific expertise
to the field of type 1 diabetes research. A similar RFA (DK-02-023)
was issued in 2002. We anticipate that a future solicitation
will provide an opportunity for expanded support for successful
collaborations funded through the current RFA.