Preclinical Studies to Characterize the Impact of Toxicants on Brain Aging and Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and AD-Related Dementias (ADRD) (U01 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

Background
The central goal of this funding initiative is to evaluate the molecular, pathologic and functional consequences of major toxicants known to be associated with elevated AD/ADRD risk, in mouse models of Late Onset AD (LOAD). Projects funded through this program will examine the consequences of early and mid-life exposure on late-life brain health by conducting cross-sectional/longitudinal multi-modal phenotyping (molecular, biochemical, pathologic and behavioral) of mouse models of LOAD. The impact of genetic diversity and sex-differences on exposure-related AD outcomes will also be studied.

Grant Details
It is well appreciated that the complexity and heterogeneity of AD/ADRD is a consequence of a dynamic interaction between genes and environment over the lifespan. Although a growing body of epidemiologic, genomic, and mechanistic research points to a significant contribution of various environmental factors (i.e., the exposome) on AD/ADRD risk and resilience, our understanding of the impact of the exposome on the etiology of AD/ADRD is still rudimentary. This funding initiative aims to establish a research consortium that will utilize mouse models of AD, including polygenic mouse models, for comprehensive assessment of the impact of AD/ADRD-relevant environmental toxicants on multiple aspects of brain aging and AD/ADRD related outcomes. The data, analytical resources, and mechanistic insights delivered by this initiative may inform new strategies for AD/ADRD risk assessment, risk reduction, and disease prevention.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, nonprofits with 501(c)(3) IRS status, for-profit organizations, state governments, county governments, city or township governments, special district governments, Indian/Native American Tribal Governments (Federally Recognized), U.S. Territory or Possession agencies, independent school districts, public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities, Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments), faith-based or community-based organizations, regional organizations, non-domestic (non-U.S.) entities (Foreign Institutions), foreign components of U.S. Organizations are also eligible to apply.

Period of Performance
The period of performance for this grant opportunity starts from October 23, 2023. The maximum project period is 5 years.

Grant Value
NIA intends to commit $4 million in fiscal year 2024 to support 2 awards. Application budgets are capped at $1.25 million in direct costs per year.