Functional Genetics And Genomics Of Drug Addiction (R03)

Purpose. Genetic and genomic studies have identified genes and gene variants that potentially modulate the fundamental biological mechanisms underpinning addictive processes. Discovery of these genes/variants, while extremely valuable, is only a first step in understanding molecular mechanisms of addiction. This Funding Opportunity Announcement encourages basic functional genomic research in two areas: 1. functional validation to determine which candidate genes/variants have an authentic role in addictive processes, and 2. detailed elucidation of the molecular pathways and processes modulated by candidate genes/variants, particularly for those genes with an unanticipated role in addiction. Mechanism of Support. This FOA will utilize the NIH Small Research Grant (R03) award mechanism and runs in parallel with an FOA of identical scientific scope, PA-07-166, that solicits applications under the RO1 mechanism and PA-07-167, that solicits applications under the R21 mechanism. The R03 grant mechanism supports different types of projects including pilot and feasibility studies; secondary analysis of existing data; small, self-contained research projects; development of research methodology; and development of new research technology. The R03 is intended to support small research projects that can be carried out in a short period of time with limited resources. The R03 is not renewable. Funds Available and Anticipated Number of Awards. Awards issued under this FOA are contingent upon the availability of funds and the submission of a sufficient number of meritorious applications. Budget and Project Period. Budgets for direct costs of up to $50,000 per year and a project duration of up to two years may be requested for a maximum of $100,000 direct costs over a two-year project period.