National Institutes of Health

Description

Extracellular RNA (exRNA) is present in human body fluids, such as blood, saliva, urine, breast milk, amniotic fluid, cerebrospinal fluid, ascites and pleural effusions. The concept that secreted exRNA can alter target cell phenotypes is emerging as a universal and novel paradigm in intercellular signaling. In view of this emerging paradigm, the NIH invites applications for projects that will develop novel therapies based on exRNA signaling. The overall goal of this initiative is to develop and demonstrate the potential for clinical utility of exRNAs as therapeutic agents, and to develop tools and technologies to enable engineered RNAs to be packaged into extracellular vesicles or associated with RNA-binding proteins for use as extracellular delivery vehicles. These projects should include methods for the production, purification, and packaging of specific RNAs and methods to deliver them to target cells via extracellular space.

Who can apply

• State governments
• County governments
• City or township governments
• Special district governments
• Independent school districts
• Public and State controlled institutions of higher education
• Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized)
• Public housing authorities / Indian housing authorities
• Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized)
• Nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status (other than higher education)
• Nonprofits without 501(c)(3) status (other than higher education)
• Private institutions of higher education
• For-profit organizations other than small businesses
• Small businesses
• Others

Contact

NIH OER Webmaster<br/>FBOWebmaster@OD.NIH.GOV<br/>
FBOWebmaster@OD.NIH.GOV