NIH Blueprint for Neuroscience: Coordination Center for Interoception Research (BPCCIR) (U24, Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Blueprint for Neuroscience Research is a collaborative initiative involving 14 NIH Institutes, Centers, and Offices. This program is designed to accelerate discoveries in neuroscience and reduce the burden of nervous system disorders. In line with this mission, NIH has announced a forecasted opportunity titled "NIH Blueprint for Neuroscience: Coordination Center for Interoception Research (BPCCIR)". This grant opportunity, issued under opportunity number NOT-AT-25-005, seeks to establish a Coordination Center to promote multidisciplinary research in interoception—the perception and regulation of internal bodily signals. The proposed funding mechanism is a U24 cooperative agreement, and clinical trials are not permitted under this opportunity. The BPCCIR will serve as a hub for coordinating interoception research efforts and will support the creation and maintenance of a multidisciplinary team. The center will be responsible for developing platforms for communication and collaboration, organizing annual scientific meetings, and supporting community standards like common data elements. It aims to enhance reproducibility and foster innovative, integrative research that bridges the traditional separation between brain and body-focused biomedical research. This funding initiative aligns with the NIH Director's broader strategic priority to improve public health by supporting research that transcends traditional organ-specific approaches. Interoception research is particularly important because it informs understanding and treatment of various conditions related to internal body regulation, including obesity, diabetes, anxiety, depression, PTSD, autism, cardiovascular diseases, and chronic pain. Through this effort, NIH aims to foster innovative strategies for disease prevention and treatment rooted in understanding interoceptive processes. Eligible applicants include a wide range of entities such as higher education institutions (both public and private), non-profits, for-profit organizations (including small businesses), independent school districts, tribal organizations, and various levels of government. These applicants must be equipped to engage in multidisciplinary interoception research aligned with NIH’s goals. The program does not require cost-sharing or matching funds, which broadens accessibility to a diverse group of applicants. The estimated post date for the official Funding Opportunity Announcement is August 11, 2025, with applications due by November 10, 2025. Awards are expected to be announced by July 1, 2026, which is also the proposed start date for the funded project. Only one award is anticipated, with total available funding estimated at $700,000. All proposals must be submitted via the Grants.gov system once the NOFO is officially released. For more information or questions, the designated contact is Wen Chen, who can be reached by email at chenw@mail.nih.gov or by phone at 301-451-3989.