Neuromodulation/Neurostimulation Device Development for Mental Health Applications (R01 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

This grant opportunity is focused on the development of next-generation neuromodulation or neurostimulation devices intended to treat various mental health disorders. The grant, a reissue of PAR-18-942, does not allow for clinical trials. Applications are welcomed from individuals or groups who aim to either create innovative brain stimulation devices or significantly enhance the effectiveness of existing U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved or cleared devices through substantial hardware or software upgrades.

This opportunity particularly encourages the progression beyond current electrical/magnetic stimulation methods towards developing new stimulation techniques. Such enhancements should offer greater precision in terms of spatiotemporal control as well as embrace multi-focal, closed-loop approaches.

Applicants seeking to devise new capabilities should target significant improvements in spatial resolution, depth of delivery, and the precision of these devices. However, the grant does not cover incremental changes to existing devices, like software updates. The aim of this grant opportunity is to stimulate innovative and transformative changes in the design and function of brain stimulation devices used in mental health treatments.