Blueprint Neurotherapeutics Network (BPN): Biologic-based Drug Discovery and Development for Disorders of the Nervous System (UG3/UH3 Clinical Trial Optional)

The Blueprint Neurotherapeutics Network for Biologics (BPN-Biologics) provides support for biologic-based therapeutic discovery and development, from lead optimization through phase I clinical testing. This Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) supports preclinical discovery and development of potential therapeutic Biotechnology Products and Biologics including, but not limited to, large biologic macromolecules such as proteins, antibodies, and peptides, gene-based therapies including oligonucleotide- and viral-based approaches, cell therapies, and novel emerging therapies such as microbial and microbiome therapies. Applicants will collaborate with NIH-funded consultants and can augment their project with NIH contract research organizations (CROs) that specialize in manufacturing, scaling, pharmacokinetics, toxicology, and Phase I clinical testing. BPN-Biologics awardee institutions retain their assignment of intellectual property rights and gain assignment of IP rights from the BPN-Biologics contractors, thereby controlling the patent prosecution and licensing negotiations for biotherapeutic candidates developed in this program. The program supports the development of innovative biologic-based treatments for disorders of the nervous system through a comprehensive, collaborative approach that provides both funding and specialized expertise.