Undiagnosed Diseases Network (UDN) Diagnostic Research Innovation Center

NINDS intends to support a Diagnostic Research Innovation Center (DRIC) for the next phase of the Undiagnosed Diseases Network (UDN). The new Network is expected to include a Clinical and Data Coordinating Center (CDCC), geographically distributed clinical Networks of Diagnostic Excellence (NODEs), the NIH Undiagnosed Diseases Program (UDP), a DRIC, the UDN Foundation, patient advocacy organizations, NIH, and other stakeholders. The DRIC will contribute to the diagnosis of UDN participants, including participating in the systematic re-evaluation of unsolved UDN cases from previous phases of the UDN. The DRIC is expected to test and advance innovative, new diagnostic tools and strategies for both genomic and non-genomic conditions. Working closely with clinical NODEs, the UDP, the CDCC, and other UDN stakeholders, the DRIC will support the generation and testing of diagnostic hypotheses including providing expertise and resources in advanced sequencing and multi-omics, gene function studies in animal and human in vitro models, and the development of non-genetic diagnostic strategies. Collaborating with the Network, the DRIC will contribute to the discovery of novel disease-associated genes and genomic variants, non-genetic contributors to UDN phenotypes, and the identification of new diseases and syndromes. Support is expected for an integrated center that brings together complementary capabilities and investigators with demonstrated scientific synergy and prior collaboration. Applications are not being solicited at this time. This Forecast is being published to provide potential applicants time to plan, establish collaborations, and develop responsive projects.

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: (1) the scientific merit and general significance of the proposed study and its objectives; (2) the technical adequacy of the experimental design and approach; (3) the competency of the proposed investigator or group to successfully pursue the project; (4) the adequacy of the available and proposed facilities and resources; (5) the necessity of the budget components requested in relation to the proposed project; and (6) 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 environment; 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...

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.