The Department of Health and Human Services, specifically the National Institutes of Health, is seeking proposals for the development of novel tools and devices to improve animal welfare and support care of animal models in research facilities. The Office of Research Infrastructure Programs (ORIP) is particularly interested in applications from small business concerns (SBCs) for Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) projects.
The goal of this solicitation is to address the issue of poor reproducibility in experiments that use animal models, which has negatively impacted biomedical research. The variation of intrinsic and extrinsic factors that can affect the physiological and biological response of animals has made it difficult to improve reproducibility. Therefore, there is a need for devices that can accurately monitor and control environmental conditions in animal facilities, such as temperature, humidity, vibrations, and ultrasonic noise.
Additionally, devices that can identify pathogens, allergens, and other pollutants in animal research environments are desired. Noninvasive or minimally invasive bio-logging devices for real-time monitoring of animal behavior, food/water consumption, and bodily functions are also needed. These devices should be discreet, robust, and easy to apply.
Furthermore, tools and devices that can ease the handling and restraining of animals, while reducing stress for both the animals and researchers, are sought after. Connecting diet, environmental conditions, and physiological measurements will provide a comprehensive understanding of the health and life-history of animals.
The solicitation emphasizes the importance of innovation and encourages the adaptation of technologies from other fields to improve animal research. The scope of this solicitation includes a broad class of animal models, including invertebrate and vertebrate animals, but excludes disease-specific devices, reagents, and experimental protocols.
Examples of specific tools and devices that could be developed include portable software for managing and evaluating animal colonies, noninvasive tracking and monitoring technology, automated feeding systems, devices for drug delivery and measurement, devices for physiological parameter measurement, systems for behavioral assessment, phenotyping devices, improved holding and transfer devices, air and water filters, bedding materials, and tools for pathogen and contaminant measurement and sanitation.
Applicants are advised to discuss their projects with the Scientific/Research contacts before submitting an application. The solicitation is open and the application due dates are provided on the grants.gov website. For more information, refer to the solicitation agency URL: link.