Somatic Mosaicism across Human Tissues (SMaHT) Program: Genome Characterization Centers (UM1 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The purpose of the Somatic Mosaicism across Human Tissues (SMaHT) Network is to advance the discovery of biological processes and disease mechanisms mediated by somatic mutations in human tissues. Since 2023, the program has generated multi-omic somatic mutation datasets from a standardized set of human tissues spanning all three germ layers. Building on the Stage 1 foundation, the NIH intends to issue a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) seeking support for Stage 2 of the SMaHT Genome Characterization Centers (GCCs) initiative. The SMaHT Stage 2 GCCs will determine the functional consequences of somatic mutations in healthy and clinically relevant tissue samples, the latter comprising patients whose phenotype is suspected to be driven by somatic mutations. This work will support the SMaHT Network's efforts to characterize somatic mosaicism and its role in human biology and disease.

Other Eligible ApplicantsIndian/Native American Tribal Governments (Other than Federally Recognized);Eligible Agencies of the Federal Government;U.S. Territory or Possession;Faith-based or Community-based Organizations;Regional Organizations;Non-domestic (non-U.S.) Entities (Foreign Institutions).

Funding decisions are based on scientific merit (42 CFR 52h) and program relevance. Scientific merit review encompasses: the peer review criteria detailed in the specific funding announcement, as well as the significance, approach, and innovation of the proposed research; the competency of the principal investigator; the adequacy of the resources and environment; the proposed budget and requested period of support; and, where applicable, the adequacy of the measures for protecting against adverse effects upon humans, animals, or the environment.