NHLBI TOPMed: Omics Phenotypes of Heart, Lung, and Blood Disorders (X01 - Clinical Trial Not Allowed)

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), a part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, has released a forecasted funding opportunity titled “NHLBI TOPMed: Omics Phenotypes of Heart, Lung, and Blood Disorders.” This initiative leverages the TransOmics for Precision Medicine (TOPMed) program to produce large-scale, integrated genetic and multi-omics data sets that will support the discovery of molecular mechanisms underlying heart, lung, blood, and sleep (HLBS) disorders. This opportunity does not include direct funding; instead, it offers access to TOPMed’s genomic and phenotypic data infrastructure to facilitate high-impact scientific discovery. The primary objective of the forecasted Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is to transition research from cataloging genetic associations to mechanistic insights, emphasizing the understanding of genetic contributions to HLBS diseases at molecular and cellular levels. The initiative promotes the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning tools where applicable to enable functional genomics studies and drive progress toward mechanistic precision medicine. The program will use the X01 activity code, which typically supports resource access rather than financial grants. Applicants selected through this NOFO will be able to access NHLBI’s controlled-access databases such as the database for Genotypes and Phenotypes (dbGaP) and BioData Catalyst (BDC). All data generated under this program must be deposited in these NIH-designated repositories. The project does not involve clinical trials, and no direct monetary award will be made under this funding mechanism. Eligible applicants include a broad range of organizations such as state governments, county governments, public housing authorities, tribal entities, independent school districts, institutions of higher education (both public and private), nonprofit organizations, and for-profit businesses including small businesses. This wide eligibility range ensures that diverse institutions involved in biomedical research can participate. As a forecasted opportunity, applications are not currently being accepted. However, the NHLBI is providing advance notice to allow interested investigators ample time to prepare, build collaborations, and develop proposals. The estimated timeline for this funding opportunity includes a forecast date of July 8, 2025, an estimated post date of August 7, 2025, and an estimated application due date of October 7, 2025. Selected projects are expected to begin by July 1, 2026, with awards anticipated by May 1, 2026. The designated contact for inquiries is the Division of Blood Diseases and Resources at NHLBI. Interested parties can reach the grant resources team via email at nhlbidbdrgrantresource@nhlbi.nih.gov. Potential applicants are encouraged to monitor the official Grants.gov listing for any updates and to begin planning their application strategies accordingly.