The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in collaboration with the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), has issued a funding opportunity titled "Identify and Evaluate Potential Risk Factors for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)" under RFA-TS-25-036. This program aims to support research that furthers the understanding of potential risk factors for ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease. The focus areas include examining environmental and occupational exposures, military service, traumatic brain injury (TBI), neuroinflammation, contact sports, and infectious agents. The research is expected to align with the National ALS Registry's goals of improving understanding of the causes of ALS and contributing to public health strategies that protect against this disease.

The program offers three funding options to support different types of ALS-related research. Funding Option A supports studies that build on an established evidence base, focusing on risk factors that have been previously substantiated but require further rigorous evaluation. Funding Option B supports novel, exploratory investigations that may lack an established evidence base or are developmental in nature. Funding Option C focuses on ALS risk factors in underrepresented populations, including racial and ethnic minorities and military veterans. Research using data from the National ALS Registry is encouraged but not required.

The total estimated funding for this opportunity is $2.5 million, with up to eight awards anticipated. Awards under Funding Option A can receive up to $500,000 per year, while those under Options B and C can receive up to $300,000 per year. The period of performance for all funding options is up to three years, from September 2025 to September 2028. Applications must include a well-developed research strategy, and evaluation criteria will consider factors like scientific merit, the relevance of the proposed research, and potential contributions to ALS research and public health.

Eligible applicants include academic institutions, public and private entities, and nonprofits. Applications must be submitted by November 4, 2024, with Letters of Intent due by October 1, 2024. Successful applicants will be evaluated based on the significance of the proposed research, the qualifications of the research team, the innovation of the approach, and the potential for the research to improve the understanding of ALS risk factors and contribute to disease prevention and management strategies.