The National Institute on Aging (NIA), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), has announced its intent to publish a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for research on biomarkers of cognitive decline and dementias of aging in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). This initiative aims to deepen understanding of the biological markers associated with neurodegeneration and cognitive decline within this population. The NOFO will leverage the U01 cooperative agreement funding mechanism, emphasizing collaborative and multi-disciplinary research.

The primary purpose of this initiative is to conduct observational studies that employ advanced phenotyping techniques, such as neuroimaging and molecular approaches, to identify biomarkers of neurodegeneration and age-related cognitive decline in individuals with ASD. The scope includes evaluating established dementia biomarkers in the context of ASD, performing retrospective analyses of datasets to uncover ASD-specific neurodegenerative patterns, and conducting post-mortem studies to examine markers and mechanisms contributing to neurodegeneration. Projects may also involve developing and validating tools for comprehensive clinical and functional assessments tailored to individuals with ASD.

Eligible applicants for this funding opportunity include public and private institutions of higher education, state and local governments, Native American tribal organizations and governments, nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status, small businesses, for-profit organizations, independent school districts, and public or Indian housing authorities. The eligibility criteria are designed to encourage a wide range of expertise and institutional participation in addressing this critical research area.

The NOFO is expected to be published on December 15, 2024, with an application due date of February 15, 2025. The estimated award date is September 1, 2025, with projects beginning on the same date. Prospective applicants should begin developing collaborations and project designs that align with the NOFO’s focus on advancing research at the intersection of aging and ASD.

Evaluation criteria will likely include the innovation and significance of the proposed research, the alignment with program goals, and the qualifications of the research team. Strong proposals will demonstrate the ability to uncover novel biomarkers, enhance understanding of cognitive decline in ASD, and propose methods that address the specific challenges of studying this population. Details regarding the submission format, budget guidelines, and review process will be provided in the official NOFO.

The total estimated funding for this opportunity is $5,000,000. Award ceilings and floors have not been disclosed, but applicants should prepare for a competitive funding environment given the potential impact of the research.

This NOFO offers a significant opportunity to contribute to the understanding of aging-related cognitive decline in individuals with ASD, an area of growing importance in aging and neurodevelopmental research. Researchers and institutions are encouraged to stay updated via Grants.gov and related NIH communications for more details as the NOFO is finalized.