Translational Centers Using Microphysiologic Systems for Infectious Diseases

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, a component of the National Institutes of Health, is funding cooperative agreements to support the development of human microphysiologic systems for infectious disease research and therapeutics development. Awardees will develop in vitro platforms composed of cells or tissues in a microenvironment that mimics physiological in vivo tissue or organ function to study infectious diseases. The program aims to accelerate the use of these microphysiologic systems in product development, promote their adoption by drug and biological product developers, and facilitate regulatory acceptance to reduce reliance on animal testing. Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, non-profit organizations, commercial entities, government agencies, and foreign institutions. The agency estimates total program funding of $7,000,000 to support approximately five awards, with an estimated application deadline of January 29, 2027, and inquiries directed to DMIDMPSTranslational@mail.nih.gov.