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Research Activities

Our programs, projects and other research activities tackle ongoing challenges in translational research so that new treatments and other health solutions can reach people faster.

Research Activities at NCATS

Through our research activities, we overcome roadblocks that slow progress on developing treatments for many different diseases and that can lead to inequities in clinical outcomes. Explore the range of initiatives we support at NCATS and beyond.

A Specialized Platform for Innovative Research Exploration (ASPIRE)

Through this program, we are building an end-to-end solution for finding, designing and testing new molecules with the potential to become new treatments.

Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSA) Program

This program funds a network of more than 60 leading medical institutions to improve the health of individuals and communities through research, resources and training.

Discovering New Therapeutic Uses for Existing Molecules (New Therapeutic Uses)

Awarded projects aim to streamline the process of discovering new treatments and cures for diseases by identifying new uses for existing assets that have already gone through significant development steps.

National COVID Cohort Collaborative (N3C)

We created and maintain this national resource of clinical and other data to answer critical research questions about COVID-19 health outcomes.
 

More About N3C
 

OpenDataPortal

Our OpenData Portal is an open and accessible platform for sharing COVID-19-related drug repurposing data and experiments involving approved drugs.

More About OpenData Portal

The Helping to End Addiction Long-term® Initiative, or NIH HEAL Initiative®

As part of the NIH HEAL Initiative, we are applying our translational science approaches to accelerate the development of new treatments for opioid misuse, addiction and pain management.

More About HEAL Initiative®

Tissue Chip for Drug Screening

This program funds the development and testing of models built from human cells for predicting drug safety and toxicity before clinical testing in people. 

More About Tissue Chips

Last updated on February 19, 2025