The NINDS Human Biospecimen and Data Repository (U24 - Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

Background
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) invites applications to serve as the NINDS Human Biospecimen and Data Repository for Neurological Disorders. Established in 2015, the repository, known as the Biospecimen Exchange for Neurological Disorders (BioSEND), aims to acquire, maintain, and distribute biospecimens for biomarker research in various neurological disorders.

The repository has expanded to support clinical studies in conditions such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Epilepsy, and Parkinson's Disease. The goal is to foster discovery and validation of neurological biomarkers through broad distribution of high-quality biospecimens to qualified researchers.

Grant Details
The repository will manage existing collections and expand its resources to include well-annotated clinical biospecimens. Key activities include:
- Providing a coordinated infrastructure for biobanking and distribution.
- Maintaining and distributing current biospecimen collections including DNA, RNA, plasma, serum, cerebrospinal fluid, urine, saliva, and other biological samples.
- Offering study management expertise for NINDS clinical studies including protocol design and staff training.
- Supporting community-based research for remote collections.
- Implementing innovative biorepository technologies including quality control procedures.
- Facilitating access requests through a Biospecimen Resource Access Committee (BRAC).
- Coordinating with future biobanking projects for budget inclusion in grant applications.
- Sharing de-identified linked clinical data with researchers.

Eligibility Requirements
Eligible applicants include higher education institutions (public/state controlled or private), nonprofits (with or without 501(c)(3) status), for-profit organizations (including small businesses), local/state/county governments, Indian/Native American tribal governments, federal agencies, independent school districts, public housing authorities, faith-based organizations, regional organizations.

Period of Performance
The maximum project period is 5 years with an anticipated start date of March 9, 2026.

Grant Value
NINDS intends to commit up to $1,950,000 total costs in FY 2026 to fund one award.