BRAIN Initiative: Development and Validation of Novel Tools and New Approaches for Neuroscience Research

The Brain Research through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies (BRAIN) Initiative intends to publish a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to solicit applications for research to develop novel tools and approaches that enable the interrogation of cell-specific and circuit-specific processes in the central nervous system. This NOFO consolidates  three current BRAIN Initiative tool development programs.

Projects that focus on developing a broad range of new research tools to delineate anatomical and functional connections between cells and circuits, and to expand our knowledge of brain architecture and function are encouraged, such as projects that:

1. Develop novel tools to characterize/define cell-types, circuits, and cellular components in the nervous system with greater selectivity and sensitivity, including:
   • new genetic or non-genetic technologies/approaches (for delivering genes, proteins, and chemicals to access and/or manipulate cells of interest)
   • novel sensors or tracers for imaging or monitoring molecules, structures, and activities within single cells and circuits with significant advances in sensitivity, selectivity, or spatiotemporal resolution
2. Develop new technologies and novel approaches for recording and modulation of neural cells and circuits, including:
   • approaches to address major challenges and enable transformative understanding of dynamic signaling in the central nervous system
   • approaches that utilize any modality, such as optical, electrical, magnetic, or acoustic recording/manipulation
   • approaches to target neuronal electrical signals or other forms of neural activity, including intracellular signaling and engagement of non-neuronal cells in circuit function.

Projects at broad stages of development are supported, from unique and innovative technologies that are in the earliest stage of development (including new and untested ideas that are in the initial stages of conceptualization) through the optimization of existing instrumentation with transformative potential in order to facilitate broad adoption. Applications that offer transformative approaches that break through existing technical barriers and substantially improve current capabilities are strongly encouraged. 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 will utilize the RP1 activity code.