NIH asks for proposals for $50M autism data project

The big picture: NIH said it is looking for proposals that leverage existing data and possibly generate new specifics aimed at answering questions including which emerging or "understudied" factors may contribute to autism and treatment options.

• The agency said it will likely grant between 10 and 25 awards of up to $5 million each for 24- to 36-month projects.
• The data can't be directly derived from animal testing but can pull from existing information on toxicity data and other concerns that are derived from animal studies.
• The notice states that all data used should comply with privacy and confidentiality requirements, federal and state laws and other policies governing secure data usage.

Zoom in: NIH said it's seeking applicants with expertise from universities, nonprofits, business and state and local governments to analyze autism-related data.

• Other desired qualifications include the ability to turn around projects quickly and demonstrated expertise in complying with regulations on sensitive data.

• Funding proposals must include a plan for how the research will involve voices including people on the autism spectrum, their family members or caregivers, clinicians and service providers and advocacy organizations.

Between the lines: Applications are due by June 27 and the earliest possible start date is Sept. 1.

• Kennedy said in April said that HHS would determine the cause of autism by September. He later told CNN that he expects to have "answers of the etiology of autism" in March of next year.
• The project suggests a significantly longer timeline.