Circuit Dynamics Request for Applications

This request for applications (RFA) was intended to advance our understanding of the circuit basis for behavioral and cognitive alterations relevant to autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The goal was to determine the downstream consequences of autism-associated genetic perturbations on neural circuitry, with an emphasis on how collections of neurons operate in concert during autism-relevant behaviors.

To this end, we sought applications for investigations of neural circuits in awake, behaving rodent models of autism. It was anticipated that SFARI would work closely with awarded investigative teams on all major aspects of the project, including selection of rodent models, data coordination and dissemination.

Priority was given to projects focused on those behaviors for which the underlying circuits are reasonably well established. Exploratory analysis in other circuits was acceptable if the behavior is highly relevant to autism. Experiments included electrical or optical multi-neuronal recordings within microcircuits or macrocircuits. Studies centered on brain activity in awake, behaving animals. The use of anesthetized or reduced preparations was permissible, but only in support of the experiments in awake animals.

In order to find commonalities and distinctions between models, recordings needed to be carried out in two or more rodent models of autism, with a view to future inclusion of additional models. As with all complex projects, some technical optimization was expected; however, the majority of the project period was not to be devoted to development of technical capabilities. As such, we expected that competitive applications would be from labs proposing to apply their established technical capabilities to the study of autism rodent models.