A -- Neurophysiological Studies of Electrical Stimulation for the Vestibular Nerve

The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders at the National Institutes of Health is seeking proposals for a research and development project focused on electrically stimulating the vestibular nerve after loss of function in the vestibular endorgans. The project aims to create methods that can provide therapeutic benefits to patients during episodes of dizziness caused by irregular vestibular activity and potentially serve as part of a balance prosthesis. The research primarily involves animal studies, with an emphasis on applications relevant to human clinical treatments in the near future. This initiative is structured as a five-year cost-reimbursement contract, with the award expected around September 1, 2006. The solicitation was planned for release around September 13, 2005, with a proposal submission deadline 60 days later. Interested parties are encouraged to regularly check the designated website for updates or amendments to the solicitation. All qualified sources are invited to submit proposals, which will be reviewed by the Government. The contract point of contact is Contracting Officer John P DeCenzo, who can be reached via email or phone.