Briefing: RFA-DA-26-010 (EXPIRED)

Status: This funding opportunity expired March 11, 2026. Applications may be accepted on a case-by-case basis post-expiration under NIH late-submission policies; contact the eRA Service Desk.

Research Focus

This R21 Exploratory/Developmental Research Grant supports early-stage basic and preclinical research investigating how mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to accelerated aging and neuropathological outcomes in people living with HIV and substance use disorders (SUDs). The program targets the intersection of three mechanisms: mitochondrial stress, HIV infection and antiretroviral therapy (ART), and exposure to addictive substances (opioids, methamphetamine, cocaine, nicotine, cannabinoids, xylazine, and others). Research should elucidate protective and pathogenic pathways—including mitochondrial dynamics, metabolomics, oxidative stress, mitophagy, epigenetic regulation, and somatic mutations—that drive or mitigate age-associated immunodeficiency and neurocognitive impairment. Priority areas include characterizing mitochondrial regulation of neural and immune cell activation and senescence; identifying targetable mechanisms to prevent mitochondrial stress; determining how mitochondrial haplotypes and mutations contribute to frailty and cognitive decline; and developing computational models to identify individuals at risk for pathological aging.

At-a-Glance

• Who can apply: Higher education institutions, nonprofits, for-profit organizations, government agencies, tribal governments, faith-based organizations, and foreign organizations (with required registrations: SAM, eRA Commons, UEI).
• Funding & project length: Up to $275,000 direct costs over 2 years (max $200,000 per year); 3–6 awards anticipated from $3,000,000 total FY 2026 commitment.
• Award mechanism: R21 Exploratory/Developmental Research Grant (clinical trials not allowed).
• Key dates: Applications due March 10, July 10, October 10, December 10 (2025–2026); earliest start March 2026.
• Best fit for: Researchers in neuroscience, immunology, gerontology, or addiction science studying mitochondrial biology, HIV pathogenesis, or substance use mechanisms in aging populations using molecular, cellular, or computational approaches.