Circuit Dynamics Request for Applications

This request for applications (RFA) was intended to advance understanding of the circuit basis for behavioral and cognitive alterations relevant to autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The goal was to determine the downstream consequences of autism-associated genetic perturbations on neural circuitry, with an emphasis on how collections of neurons operate in concert during autism-relevant behaviors. The program sought applications for investigations of neural circuits in awake, behaving rodent models of autism. SFARI worked closely with awarded investigative teams on all major aspects of the project, including selection of rodent models, data coordination and dissemination. Priority was given to projects focused on behaviors for which the underlying circuits are reasonably well established, with experiments including electrical or optical multi-neuronal recordings within microcircuits or macrocircuits. Studies needed to be centered on brain activity in awake, behaving animals. Recordings needed to be carried out in two or more rodent models of autism to find commonalities and distinctions between models. Competitive applications were expected from labs proposing to apply their established technical capabilities to the study of autism rodent models.