DoD Neurofibromatosis Exploration – Hypothesis Development Award

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The NFRP Exploration – Hypothesis Development Award (EHDA) mechanism was first offered in FY08. Since that time, 46 EHDA applications have been received, and 13 have been recommended for funding. The EHDA supports the initial exploration of innovative, high-risk, high-gain, and potentially groundbreaking concepts in the neurofibromatosis and/or Schwannomatosis research fields. Results of studies conducted through this award may provide the scientific rationale upon which a new hypothesis can be based, or they should provide initial principles of an innovative hypothesis. This award is designed to provide investigators with the opportunity to pursue serendipitous observations. The presentation of preliminary data is encouraged, but not required. It is the responsibility of the Principal Investigator (PI) to clearly and explicitly articulate how the proposed research is innovative and how the concept is novel. DOD FY10 Neurofibromatosis Exploration – Hypothesis Development Award 3 Because these awards are designed for preliminary investigations, projects involving human subjects or specimens will not be supported unless they are exempt under 32 CFR 219.101(b) or eligible for expedited review (32 CFR 219.110 or 21 CFR 56.110). Additional information on the protection of human subjects and exempt or expedited review status may be found at https://www.bids.tswg.gov/TSWG/bids.nsf/5DD5E2BA50F02C18852572B1005F5B8B/$file/Title_32_CFR_Part_219.pdf. Applications proposing studies that do not qualify for exempt or expedited review status will be administratively withdrawn. PIs wishing to apply for funding for a clinical trial should utilize the Clinical Trial Award mechanism. Areas of Encouragement: The FY10 NFRP encourages research proposals that specifically address the critical needs of the NF community in the following areas: • Complications of NF with high mortality such as neoplasms and cerebrovascular abnormalities; • Complications of NF with high morbidity such as skeletal maladies, learning deficits, hormone-associated effects, and pain; • Refinement and standardization of imaging techniques, molecular and cellular markers, and quality of life metrics for use in future clinical trials; and • Translational research such as the development or preclinical testing of therapeutic agents for the treatment of NF.

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