Undiagnosed Diseases Network (UDN) Clinical Networks of Diagnostic Excellence

NINDS intends to support multiple clinical Networks of Diagnostic Excellence (NODEs) as part of the next phase of the Undiagnosed Diseases Network (UDN). Unlike prior phases, clinical NODEs are expected to function as geographically distributed regional clinical networks rather than single-site centers. Each clinical NODE would establish and lead a regional network built on existing partnerships with academic medical centers, hospitals, clinics, federally qualified health centers, and other community-based clinical partners to broaden access to specialized diagnostic expertise and extend the reach of the UDN. Clinical NODEs are expected to provide a coordinated, multidisciplinary and participant-centered evaluation of individuals with highly challenging, difficult-to-diagnose conditions. In collaboration with the Network, clinical NODEs will recruit and enroll participants, conduct medical record reviews, make enrollment determinations, communicate review outcomes and recommendations to participants and referring providers, and coordinate the clinical evaluation with local partner sites and referring providers, as appropriate. In addition, clinical NODEs will participate in network collaborations to develop and test innovative, new diagnostic tools and strategies for both genomic and non-genomic conditions, support systematic re-evaluation of unsolved UDN cases, and conduct research to optimize participant access and experience. Clinical NODEs are also expected to participate in network governance and infrastructure; provide training to support consistent implementation of UDN processes and standards; incorporate participant and community input into workflows and engagement strategies, such as through a Community Advisory Board or comparable mechanisms; and monitor site performance. Applications are not being solicited at this time. This Forecast is being published to provide potential applicants time to plan, establish collaborations, formalize regional partnerships, and prepare 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...