Strategies for Eliminating HIV Proteins (R01 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

Background
The National Institutes of Health (NIH), specifically the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), is issuing this notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) to support the development of innovative molecules that target HIV proteins or RNA for degradation or interfere with the translation of HIV RNA into protein.

This initiative aims to introduce a new drug discovery paradigm for HIV, focusing on eliminating viral proteins that have been challenging to target through traditional drug discovery methods.

Grant Details
This funding opportunity will support applications for projects aimed at discovering and developing novel therapeutics directed at intracellular HIV targets. The goal is to eliminate viral proteins through various mechanisms, including but not limited to: targeting HIV RNA transcripts with small molecules, inhibiting RNA splicing, blocking translation, enabling degradation of RNA encoding selected viral proteins, and selectively targeting viral proteins for degradation using known cellular processes.

Projects may involve proof-of-concept studies in HIV-infected primary cells and small animal models. Preliminary data demonstrating that candidate molecules can bind to HIV intracellular proteins or RNA is required. Non-responsive applications will include those focused on discovering new small molecule inhibitors of HIV enzyme activity, targeting latency reversal, using non-human primates in animal model studies, or proposing clinical trials.

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 (federally recognized and others), federal agencies, independent school districts, public housing authorities, faith-based organizations, regional organizations, and foreign entities. Individuals from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Period of Performance
The maximum project period is five years. The earliest start date for awarded projects is anticipated in April 2025.

Grant Value
NIAID intends to commit $1.2 million in FY 2025 to fund 1-2 awards. Application budgets are not limited but must reflect the actual needs of the proposed project.