Mechanisms Underlying Olfactory Dysfunction in Aging and Alzheimer’s Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease-Related Dementias

The National Institute on Aging (NIA), with the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), intends to publish a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to solicit applications that investigate the mechanisms underlying the association between olfactory decline and aging or Alzheimer's disease (AD) and AD-related dementias (ADRD). Understanding these mechanisms may help inform the potential use of olfactory dysfunction with age as an indicator of various health outcomes in older adults (e.g. physical function) and as a predictor of AD/ADRD risk. Identifying circuit-level olfactory changes may also uncover novel targets for developing disease-modifying therapeutic strategies. Studies may include older adults and/or animal models and may employ a variety of approaches, including cellular, molecular, imaging, physiological, omics and new approach methodologies (NAMs) to address the research gaps. Applications are not being solicited at this time. Notice is being provided to allow potential applicants sufficient time to develop meaningful collaborations and responsive projects. This NOFO intends to utilize the R01 activity code. Investigators with expertise and insights into this area of aging research are encouraged to begin to consider applying for this new NOFO.

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.

The major elements in evaluating proposals include assessments of: the scientific merit and general significance of the proposed study and its objectives; the technical adequacy of the experimental design and approach; the competency of the proposed investigator or group to successfully pursue the project; the adequacy of the available and proposed facilities and resources; the necessity of the budget components requested in relation to the proposed project; and the relevance and importance to announced program objectives. The following criteria will be used in considering the scientific and technical merit of SBIR/STTR Phase I grant applications: (1) The soundness and technical merit of the proposed approach; (2) the qualifications of the proposed principal investigator, supporting staff, and consultants; (3) the technological innovation of the proposed research; (4) the potential of the proposed research for commercial application; (5) the appropriateness of the budget requested; (6) the adequacy and suitability of the facilities and research; and (7) where applicable, the adequacy of assurances detailing the proposed means for (a) safeguarding human or animal subjects, and/or (b) protecting against or minimizing any adverse effect on the environment. Phase II grant applications will be reviewed based upon the following criteria: (1) The degree to which the Phase I objectives were met and feasibility demonstrated; (2) the scientific and technical merit of the proposed...

This program has no statutory formula. Matching requirements are not applicable to this assistance listing. MOE requirements are not applicable to this assistance listing.

Not Applicable.