Biology of Bladder Cancer (R21 Clinical Trial Optional)

Background
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is issuing this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to encourage applications that investigate the biology and underlying mechanisms of bladder cancer, a significant health problem in the United States and globally. Bladder cancer has a high incidence and frequent tumor recurrence, leading to a substantial medical burden. Despite recent advancements in molecular profiling and identification of mutated genes, there remains limited understanding of the molecular mechanisms driving bladder cancer initiation, progression, and malignancy. This NOFO aims to deepen knowledge of bladder cancer biology to aid in developing new interventions.

Grant Details
The grant supports exploratory/developmental research (R21) focused on novel scientific ideas or new model systems, tools, or technologies that could significantly impact biomedical research. Applications should investigate biological processes related to bladder cancer, including but not limited to:

- Understanding normal bladder development and differentiation;
- Examining mechanisms related to NMIBC prevention and progression;
- Studying the stromal environment's role in bladder cancer;
- Identifying functional drivers of NMIBC recurrence;
- Exploring biological mechanisms underlying disparities in bladder cancer;
- Developing new models that recapitulate the tumor microenvironment.

Projects must primarily focus on biological aspects of bladder cancer, although epidemiological or translational aims may complement the biological focus.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include higher education institutions (public/state-controlled, private), nonprofits (with or without 501(c)(3) status), for-profit organizations (including small businesses), local/state/county governments, tribal governments, federal agencies, foreign organizations, and community-based organizations. Individuals from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Period of Performance
The maximum project period for this grant is 2 years.

Grant Value
The combined budget for direct costs may not exceed $275,000 over the two-year project period, with no more than $200,000 requested in any single year.