Understanding Cerebellar Contributions to Cognitive and Affective Functions in Aging and Alzheimer's Disease/Alzheimer's Disease-Related Dementias

The National Institute on Aging (NIA), a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' National Institutes of Health (NIH), plans to release a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) under opportunity number RFA-AG-26-018. This initiative, titled "Understanding Cerebellar Contributions to Cognitive and Affective Functions in Aging and Alzheimer's Disease/Alzheimer's Disease-Related Dementias," aims to stimulate research into the role of the cerebellum in cognitive and emotional processes during aging, particularly in relation to Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and Alzheimer's Disease-Related Dementias (ADRD). As a forecasting notice, it signals upcoming funding availability to encourage early preparation by researchers and institutions. The NOFO seeks to fund a range of studies aimed at advancing understanding of cerebellar physiology and neuroanatomy in the context of healthy aging and cognitive disorders. It encourages diverse methodological approaches including basic science using human or animal models, secondary data analysis of existing AD/ADRD datasets, and studies targeting the cerebellum for potential interventions that could enhance cognitive reserve or delay the onset of dementia-related conditions. By exploring this underexamined area of neuroscience, the program intends to expand current knowledge and contribute to the development of novel preventative and therapeutic strategies. The program is designed to utilize the NIH R01 research project grant mechanism. While detailed application instructions will be available in the final NOFO, the current forecast allows prospective applicants to begin forming collaborations and designing projects aligned with the funding objectives. Eligible applicants include a wide range of U.S.-based entities such as higher education institutions, nonprofit and for-profit organizations, tribal governments, housing authorities, and regional organizations, indicating a broad commitment to inclusivity in scientific research opportunities. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement, and the forecast does not currently specify the total program funding, number of awards, or specific award limits. These details are expected upon official release. Applicants will submit proposals through Grants.gov, adhering to NIH submission protocols and deadlines. The estimated post date for the NOFO is August 6, 2026, with applications due by October 6, 2026. Awards are anticipated by July 6, 2027, with project start dates aligned accordingly. This opportunity is classified as a discretionary grant in the Health funding category, aligned with the CFDA 93.866 for Aging Research. It is part of NIH’s broader strategy to understand and mitigate age-related cognitive decline. Questions regarding this forecast can be directed to Matt Sutterer, Ph.D., at [email protected]. By providing this early forecast, the NIA seeks to catalyze high-quality research proposals that could significantly advance our understanding of the cerebellum's role in aging and dementia.