BRAIN Initiative: New Technologies and Novel Approaches for Recording and Modulation in the Nervous System (R01 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The BRAIN Initiative is a project by the NIH focusing on understanding the dynamic activity of brain circuits. This initiative includes the reissue of RFA-NS-18-020 which focuses on the development and proof-of-concept testing of new technologies for recording and modulation within the nervous system.

The goal of these technologies is to provide a transformative understanding of dynamic signaling in the central nervous system (CNS) by enabling the recording and modulation of cells, including neuronal and non-neuronal, and networks. Techniques used may include a variety of modalities for stimulation/activation, inhibition, and manipulation.

The initiative seeks highly innovative approaches to address the significant challenges associated with recording and modulating CNS activity. This includes achieving or nearing cellular resolution at various spatial and/or temporal scales, in any region and throughout the entire depth of the brain.

While the proposed research may be high-risk, its success has the potential to significantly influence the trajectory of neuroscience research. Ideal technologies for this initiative should be compatible with experiments in behaving animals, validated under in vivo conditions, and provide solutions to major obstacles in conducting neurobiological research, paving the way for new CNS discoveries.

Technologies used may employ various types of signal capturing beyond neuronal electrical activity, including optical, magnetic, acoustic, and/or genetic recording/manipulation. Applications that can integrate multiple approaches and disciplines, including the biological, chemical, and physical sciences, engineering, computational modeling, and statistical analysis, are highly encouraged.