Selective Harnessing of Intrinsic Neuroplasticity Engineering (SHINE)

Proposers must design, develop and demonstrate biological, chemical, or physical prototype systems that selectively induce neuroplasticity within predefined neural substrates while minimizing off-target effects. Work is organized around five fixed payable milestones over 18 months: experimental baseline and validation protocol (Month 3), selective substrate localization (Month 6), localized target engagement verification (Month 9), circuit-selective neuroplasticity demonstration (Month 12), and final intervention prototype delivery with validation testing (Month 18). Track A requires integration of clinical-ready prototypes with existing safety data or regulatory pathways, validated in clinical populations or translationally relevant animal models; Track B requires laboratory-scale synthesis of novel proof-of-concept platforms evaluated in vitro or in preclinical animal models. All proposals must include a site visit at Month 8-10, a virtual PI meeting at Month 9, and compliance with CMMC Level 1 cybersecurity requirements.