Nuclear Structure-Function Defects in the Pathogenesis of Muscular Dystrophy (R01)

-The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), and the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) invite applications focused upon determination of the mechanisms of a subset of muscular dystrophies that may have their basis in nucleus structure-function defects. Applications are specifically solicited for studies of Emery-Dreifuss, facioscapulohumeral, limb girdle muscular dystrophy 1B, and oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophies. Applications for studies of other muscular dystrophies are not responsive to this RFA. The expected outcomes are improvements in understanding of the genetic, cell, and molecular mechanisms of these muscular dystrophies. Applicants who can bring knowledge and expertise in the biology of the nucleus to studies of disease mechanisms are particularly encouraged. -The NINDS and NIAMS intend to commit approximately $2 million in total costs in FY 2007 for this announcement and its companion RFA (RFA-NS-07-002) to support a combined total of 4-7 meritorious applications. An applicant may request a project period of up to 5 years and a budget for direct costs up to $250,000 per year. The MDA will support additional meritorious applications received and reviewed under this RFA, to the extent that funds are available within its current research budget. -This funding opportunity will use the NIH research grant (R01) award mechanism. -Eligible organizations include for-profit or non-profit organizations, public or private institutions, such as universities, colleges, hospitals, and laboratories, units of State and local governments, eligible agencies of the Federal government, domestic institutions/organizations, Indian/Native American Tribal Government (Federally Recognized); Indian/Native American Tribal Government (Other than Federally Recognized); and Indian/Native American Tribally Designated Organization. Foreign institutions that offer unusual talent, resources, populations, or environmental conditions that are not readily available in the United States are eligible to apply. Eligible principal investigators include any individual with the skills, knowledge, and resources necessary to carry out the proposed research. Individuals from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups as well as individuals with disabilities are always encouraged to apply for NIH support. -Applicants may submit more than one application, provided they are scientifically distinct. -See Section IV.1 for application materials. -Telecommunications for the hearing impaired is available at: TTY 301-451-0088