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In Vivo High-Resolution Imaging for Inner Ear Visualization (R01 Clinical Trial optional)

ID: RFA-DC-25-005 • Type: Posted

Description

This funding opportunity aims to support the development of in vivo high-resolution structural and functional imaging technologies for the living human inner ear. Proposed projects should focus on improving the resolution of current imaging techniques or developing new imaging techniques that can visualize inner ear structures in vivo with significantly greater detail and accuracy than currently possible. Both structural and functional aspects, including visualizing dynamic elements are important to development of new and improved techniques. Projects may also focus on developing new imaging probes or contrast agents that can enhance visualization of the inner ear structures. Ultimately, research supported in response to this RFA is to encourage technologies that allow, for example, structures such as hair cells, otoliths, membranes, ions, and vasculature to be viewed in detail in awake patients in a clinical setting using non-invasive techniques. To achieve this goal, a multi-disciplinary team approach that takes advantage of the expertise of each team member is highly encouraged. Studies in humans and intermediate studies in animals, but not non-mammalian species, may be proposed to develop or advance the needed technology. Any intermediate studies must articulate a clear path of the proposed methodology to application in awake humans or define the limitations and the usefulness in anesthetized humans.
Background
The National Institutes of Health (NIH), specifically the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), is issuing this funding opportunity to support the development of in vivo high-resolution imaging technologies for the human inner ear.

The inner ear is crucial for hearing and balance, yet current imaging techniques fail to provide sufficient resolution to visualize its structures adequately. This initiative aims to enhance diagnostic capabilities and treatment planning for inner ear disorders by enabling detailed visualization of auditory and vestibular components in living patients using non-invasive methods.

Grant Details
Proposed projects should focus on:
1) Developing new non-invasive imaging techniques that provide high-resolution, three-dimensional imaging of inner ear structures;
2) Improving existing imaging techniques such as micro-CT, OCT, super-resolution microscopy, photoacoustic imaging, and MRI;
3) Creating novel imaging probes or contrast agents that target inner ear structures;
4) Preparing technologies for clinical translation, including developing new devices or image analysis software.

Studies may include human subjects and intermediate studies in mammalian models, with a clear path defined for application in awake humans. Projects must articulate how increased resolution will impact diagnosis and treatment of inner ear pathologies.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include higher education institutions (public or private), nonprofits, for-profit organizations (including small businesses), local/state governments, tribal governments, federal agencies, and foreign organizations. Individuals from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Period of Performance
The maximum project period is five years. The earliest start date for funded projects is June 3, 2025.

Grant Value
NIDCD intends to commit $3 million in FY 2025 to fund 4-6 awards under this NOFO. Future funding amounts are planned at $2 million for FY 2026 and FY 2027. The maximum funding per grant is less than $500,000 direct costs per year.

Place of Performance
The grant will be performed in clinical settings where advanced imaging technologies can be applied to living human subjects.

Overview

Category of Funding
Health
Funding Instruments
Grant
Grant Category
Discretionary
Cost Sharing / Matching Requirement
False
Source
On 1/6/25 the National Institutes of Health posted grant opportunity RFA-DC-25-005 for In Vivo High-Resolution Imaging for Inner Ear Visualization (R01 Clinical Trial optional) with funding of $500,000. The grant will be issued under grant program 93.173 Research Related to Deafness and Communication Disorders.

Timing

Posted Date
Jan. 6, 2025, 12:00 a.m. EST
Closing Date
Oct. 1, 2026, 12:00 a.m. EDT Due in 601 Days
Last Updated
Jan. 6, 2025, 12:14 p.m. EST
Version
1
Archive Date
Nov. 6, 2026

Eligibility

Eligible Applicants
For profit organizations other than small businesses
City or township governments
Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education
Others (see text field entitled "Additional Information on Eligibility" for clarification)
Private institutions of higher education
State governments
Public and State controlled institutions of higher education
Public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities
Independent school districts
Small businesses
County governments
Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized)
Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments)
Special district governments
Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education
Additional Info
Other Eligible Applicants include the following: Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian Serving Institutions; Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions (AANAPISISs); Eligible Agencies of the Federal Government; Faith-based or Community-based Organizations; Hispanic-serving Institutions; Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs); Indian/Native American Tribal Governments (Other than Federally Recognized); Non-domestic (non-U.S.) Entities (Foreign Organizations); Regional Organizations; Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities (TCCUs) ; U.S. Territory or Possession.

Award Sizing

Ceiling
$500,000
Floor
Not Listed
Estimated Program Funding
$500,000
Estimated Number of Grants
Not Listed

Contacts

Contact
National Institutes of Health
Contact Email
Email Description
See Section VII. Agency Contacts within the full opportunity announcement for all other inquires.
Contact Phone
(301) 402-2541
Additional Information
https://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-DC-25-005.html

Documents

Posted documents for RFA-DC-25-005

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