NIH announced today* that in April 2010 they will be releasing a Request for Applications ‘Blueprint for Neuroscience Grand Challenge: New Drugs for Diseases and Disorders of the Nervous System (U01)’. A large number of NIH institutes are participating, and the effort is being spearheaded by NINDS. This is exciting for two reasons. 1. It seeks applications to develop new small molecule drugs to transform treatment of nervous system conditions (which could include neurofibromatosis) and to take these into Phase I (safety) trials. The awards will provide funding and importantly access to NIH’s technical, infrastructure, and advisory resources. 2. A Request for Applications at NIH (versue say a Program Announcement) usually has earmarked/set aside funds attached, which is good news. We will be watching closely for more news on this funding opportunity. If you have questions please contact Dr. Jill Heemskerk at NINDS, Email: jill_heemskerk@nih.gov
* www.nih.gov – Reference – Notice Number: NOT-NS-10-002
