Are there restrictions about particular model systems or cell types that may be proposed?
Yes, The Epigenomics of Disease RFA is intended to advance our understanding of human disease etiology, and as such, applicants are required to work in human cells or tissues. However, we recognize that many human diseases, such as brain disorders, may be difficult or even impossible to study on a global scale in human systems because appropriate human cells or tissue are not available. In these instances, applicants may propose conducting the global epigenome-wide analysis in a mammalian animal model; however, they must provide a compelling justification why an equivalent human model is not available or appropriate for the proposed project. Determining whether it is appropriate for you to propose a project using a mammalian animal model, in lieu of using human cells or tissues, is something you should discuss with IC program staff, prior to submitting your application, as part of determining programmatic relevance for your project (as recommended in the RFA).
