“The Blue Sheet” Vol. 36, no. 17

Development of assays, reagents and technology to evaluate specific, protective mucosal immune responses induced by
AIDS vaccines in animals and human volunteers.
Examples of research areas of mucosal immunity for AIDS vaccines of high priority and that would be responsive to the
RFA may include, but are not limited to, those listed below. These research topics are intended to provide a perspective
on the scope of research. It is not required that all or any of them be included in a particular group of applications.
Development and analysis of novel AIDS vaccine strategies, vectors, delivery systems, or adjuvant formulations that would
stimulate protective mucosal immunity, particularly in the genital tract in primate models.
Development of methods to evaluate mucosal immunity to lentiviruses in humans and primates.
Identification and evaluation of functional antibody responses that might be effective in preventing HIV or SIV mucosal
transmission. Analysis of the mechanism of action of antiviral IgA antibodies.
Identification and characterization of mucosal cell-mediated immune responses (regional cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL)
and helper T cells).
Upon initiation of this program, several group and network meetings (three or four per year) will be sponsored to encourage
the exchange of information and ideas among investigators who participate in this program. Applicants should provide plans
for attending these meetings in their budget requests. Further details on special requirements are provided in the RFA.
Because some investigators may not have adequate access to some specialized resources (such as: SIV or HIV and/or
their proteins used as immunogens; evaluation for immunogenicity in primates; HIV or SIV vaccine samples for evaluation)
NIAID staff will be available as a source of information regarding these resources. Access to these resources should be
discussed with NIAID program staff prior to submission of an application.
Factors to be considered in the evaluation of each application will be similar to those used in review of traditional research
grant applications and, in addition, will include those addressing overall proposed collaboration.
For further information contact: Bonnie Mathieson, NIAID, Solar Bldg., Rm. 2804, 6003 Executive Blvd., Bethesda, MD 20892,
phone: [phone]. Letter of Intent Receipt Date: April 15, 1993. Application Receipt Date: May 21, 1993.
RFP-NIAID-DMID-94-04 Investigative Group for Hepatitis Molecular Pathogenesis, Immunology &
Virology
P.T. 34; K.W. 0710070, 1002045, 0765033, 0715125, 0755010
The Enteric Diseases Branch of the Div. of Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, Natl. Institute of Allergy & Infectious Diseases (NIAID), has a requirement for a group to perform independent and collaborative work on hepatitis viruses in model
systems such as the woodchuck. The specific focus is on understanding infection and chronic disease, identifying parameters that determine the outcome of infection, i.e., recovery and chronicity, and developing/evaluating preventions and
therapies. This contract is to perform the molecular and viral/host assays for both the independent and collaborative work
in the woodchuck animal model for hepatitis B and D. The Div. of Intramural Research has a requirement for a contractor
to determine the presence and quantities of markers of human hepatitis viruses on samples generated by separate activities using primarily commercially available kits. The DMID part of this effort is Part I, and the DIR Portion is Part II.
RFP No. NIAID-DMID-94-04 is now available. Responses are due by 4:30 pm on April 26, 1993. It is estimated that one
contract for Parts I and II together or two separate contracts for Parts I and II separately will be awarded incrementally
for a period of five years. Due to increased emphasis in vaccine programs, the government reserves the right to make
more than one award for Part I. Any responsible offeror may submit a proposal that will be considered by the government.
For further information contact: Carl Henn, NIAID, 6003 Executive Blvd., Solar Bldg., Rd. 3C07, Bethesda, MD 20892.
ARTHRITIS & MUSCULOSKELETAL & SKIN DISEASES
PA-93-30 Research on Raynaud's Phenomenon & Systemic Sclerosis
P.T. 34; K.W. 1002004, 0765033

The Natl. Institute of Arthritis & Musculoskeletal & Skin Diseases (NIAMS) invites research grant applications for studies
of basic biological and clinical aspects of Raynaud's phenomenon, focusing particularly on microvascular control mechanisms, collagen synthesis, and other aspects of fibroblast biology, endothelial cell function, and immunological abnormalities

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