Underactive Bladder and Detrusor Activity in Aging (R21 Clinical Trial Optional) | PA 18 572

Opportunity Information: Apply for PA 18 572

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is soliciting applications under the grant opportunity "Underactive Bladder and Detrusor Activity in Aging (R21 Clinical Trial Optional)" (Funding Opportunity Number: PA-18-572). This program supports exploratory and early-stage research aimed at improving what is known about underactive bladder (UAB) and detrusor underactivity (DU), especially as these conditions develop or worsen with aging. The overall intent is to strengthen the scientific foundation behind how DU/UAB arises in older adults, what its real-world consequences are, and how clinicians can more effectively identify, evaluate, and treat it using evidence-based approaches.

The FOA encourages a wide range of studies, including basic, clinical, and translational research. Proposed projects are expected to address one or more key areas: first, the biology, etiology, and pathophysiology of DU or UAB, using animal models and/or studies in older adults; second, the translation of basic and clinical findings into clinical practice and health decision-making, meaning research that helps move discoveries into practical tools, workflows, or guidance that can influence care; third, research on diagnosis, prevention, management strategies, and clinical outcomes for UAB specifically in older adults, including work that clarifies which interventions are effective and for whom; and fourth, epidemiology and risk factor research that explains how common DU/UAB is with advancing age and what factors predict onset or progression. Across these themes, NIH is signaling interest in studies that can connect mechanistic understanding with measurable impacts on patient care and outcomes in aging populations.

The funding mechanism is the NIH R21, which is designed for exploratory and developmental projects. In practice, that means the program is tailored to early, conceptual, or high-potential ideas that may still be building preliminary evidence, rather than large, fully mature research programs. The "Clinical Trial Optional" designation means applicants may propose a clinical trial if it fits the scientific aims, but a trial is not required; both trial and non-trial projects are eligible as long as they align with the FOA focus on DU/UAB in aging.

From an administrative standpoint, this is a discretionary grant in the health category (CFDA 93.866). The listed award ceiling is $200,000. The opportunity was created on January 11, 2018, with an original closing date of May 7, 2021 (noting that applicants typically should verify current submission dates and any reissuances or updates in NIH systems, since NIH opportunities can have multiple receipt dates or later related announcements).

Eligibility is broad and includes many organization types. Eligible applicants include state, county, and city or township governments; special district governments; independent school districts; public and state-controlled institutions of higher education; private institutions of higher education; federally recognized Native American tribal governments; other Native American tribal organizations; public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities; nonprofits with and without 501(c)(3) status (other than institutions of higher education); for-profit organizations (other than small businesses); small businesses; and additional categories listed as "others." The FOA also explicitly highlights eligibility for a range of institutions and organizations such as Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian Serving Institutions, Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions (AANAPISISs), Hispanic-serving Institutions, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities (TCCUs), eligible federal agencies, faith-based or community-based organizations, regional organizations, U.S. territories or possessions, and even non-domestic (non-U.S.) entities (foreign organizations). This wide eligibility reflects an intent to draw innovative ideas from diverse research environments and communities, including those that serve populations disproportionately affected by age-related health conditions.

In summary, this FOA is centered on advancing early-stage, high-impact research on the causes, mechanisms, diagnosis, management, outcomes, and population-level patterns of DU/UAB in older adults. The expected payoff is clearer scientific understanding and more actionable clinical guidance, ultimately helping health systems and clinicians make better decisions for aging individuals experiencing underactive bladder or detrusor underactivity.

• The National Institutes of Health in the health sector is offering a public funding opportunity titled "Underactive Bladder and Detrusor Activity in Aging (R21 Clinical Trial Optional)" and is now available to receive applicants.
• Interested and eligible applicants and submit their applications by referencing the CFDA number(s): 93.866.
• This funding opportunity was created on 2018-01-11.
• Applicants must submit their applications by 2021-05-07. (Agency may still review applications by suitable applicants for the remaining/unused allocated funding in 2026.)
• Each selected applicant is eligible to receive up to $200,000.00 in funding.
• Eligible applicants include: State governments, County governments, City or township governments, Special district governments, Independent school districts, Public and State controlled institutions of higher education, Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized), Public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities, Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments), Nonprofits having a 501 (c) (3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education, Nonprofits that do not have a 501 (c) (3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education, Private institutions of higher education, For-profit organizations other than small businesses, Small businesses, Others.

Apply for PA 18 572

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