National Institutes of Health, Division of Research Contracts, OCM/OA 6100 Executive Blvd., MSC 7540, Room 6E01, Bethesda, MD, 20892-7540

A -- THE PROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF PATTERNED ELECTRICAL STIMULATION ON THE DEAFENED AUDITORY SYSTEM SOL NIH-DC-97-03 POC Donna M. Winters (301) 496-4487, FAX (301) 402-0178. The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, National Institutes of Health, is recompeting an ongoing project which is currently being performed by the Regents of the University of California, San Francisco (Contract No. N01-DC-4- 2143). This requirement is for research to develop methods of protecting the remaining portions of the auditory system from degeneration after hair cell loss. Previous studies have shown that certain forms of electrical stimulation provide such a protective effect. The offeror shall evaluate the possibility that certain forms of chronic electrical stimulation of selected portions of the auditory system can maintain and possibly enhance the anatomical and physiological viability of the remaining auditory system following loss of hair cells in a manner compatible with preserving and possibly extending the function of an implanted auditory prosthesis. It is anticipated that a cost reimbursement, term type contract will be awarded for a three year period. The offeror will be required to come to Bethesda yearly to present progress on their work at the Neural Prosthesis Workshop sponsored by the Neural Prosthesis Program. It is planned that RFP No. NIH-DC-97-03 will be available on or about October 11, 1996. Proposals shall be due approximately 60 days after the date of issuance of the solicitation. All responsible sources may submit a proposal which shall be considered by the Government. Copies of the solicitation can be obtained by sending a written request to Donna M. Winters, Contracting Officer, National Institutes of Health, Division of Research Contracts, OCM/OA/OD, 6100 Executive Boulevard, MSC 7540, Room 6E01, Bethesda, MD 20892-7540. See Numbered Note 26. No collect calls will be accepted. (0253)

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