Funding News - Research on Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorders Sought

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) encourages grant applications for research on autism and autism spectrum disorders. This announcement is made together with 5 other components of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).*

Autism and autism spectrum disorders (which consist of five disorders: autistic disorder, Rett's disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, Asperger's disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified) are complex disorders that are generally life-long, and affect multiple aspects of development, learning, and adaptation in the community. The causes of these disorders are poorly understood, but may include genetic, metabolic, immunologic, or infectious or other environmental influences.

Potential areas of research interest include: epidemiology, screening, early identification and diagnosis, genetic studies, brain mechanisms, communication skills, pharmacogenomic studies, cognitive neuroscience, psychosocial (behavioral) interventions, pharmacological and other biological interventions, and support and rehabilitative services across the lifespan--including adulthood and the transition to adulthood.

For more information, potential applicants should contact Dr. Deborah Hirtz, Program Director, Clinical Trials Cluster, NINDS, Neuroscience Center, 6001 Executive Boulevard, Room 2212, Bethesda, MD 20892; telephone: 301-496-5821; fax: 301-480-1080; e-mail: dh83f@nih.gov.

*For a full list of supporting NIH components and a more detailed description of this program announcement, please visit the NIH web site at: http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-04-085.html.