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

Forecasted opportunity (not yet open for applications; expected to be posted around 2027-02-10; estimated application due date 2027-06-10). 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: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 resolutionDevelop 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 systemapproaches that utilize any modality, such as optical, electrical, magnetic, or acoustic recording/manipulationapproaches 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…