# The BRAIN-STORRM Network for AAV vector manufacture and distribution

> **NIH NIH U24** · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · 2024 · $886,789

## Abstract

Cell type specific neural circuits are the foundation of adaptive behaviors and cognitive functions, including
learning, memory, and decision making. Therefore, identifying cell type specific neurocomputational principles
is a primary goal of the BRAIN Initiative and of our research program. A crucial tool in nearly all studies of cell
type specific neural circuits is adeno associated viral (AAV) vectors. To diversify research into neural circuits,
and to expand access to underrepresented groups and more neuroscience labs, we propose to establish the
BRAIN-STORRM (Scientific and Technical Operations for Resource/Reagent Manufacturing) Center at the
HBCU University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES). The BRAIN-STORRM Center at UMES will be a vector
core and validation site that is closely integrated with a major effort at the University of Pittsburgh (UF1MH130881)
to develop cell type specific AAVs. The resulting BRAIN-STORRM Network has three principal goals: (1)
Complement and expand the UF1 work, which is focused on creating and validating enhancer-driven AAVs that
are cell type specific in nonhuman primates, by validating AAV cell type specificity in wild type mice; (2) Test and
validate the effectiveness of cell type specific enhancers in different AAV capsids with various delivery routes,
and thereby build a catalog of ready-to-ship vectors, each with multiple payload options, including GFP,
optogenetic, chemogenetic, and calcium sensor transgenes; and (3) Train a new generation of scientists from
underserved populations in cutting edge molecular biology techniques, with expertise in AAV technology, and
prepare them for academic and biotechnology careers. A web-based inventory will catalog availability and enable
easy ordering, and constructs will be distributed under a modest cost-recovery structure. The BRAIN-STORRM
Center will scale up production, availability, and distribution of cell type specific AAV-enhancer vectors and
provide a vital resource for these high-demand biologicals. Its work validating enhancers in multiple serotypes is
critical science that will expand resource access to labs working in rodents and provide UMES students with the
opportunity to publish high impact papers and launch their careers. These capacity-building efforts will enhance
the impact of BRAIN Initiative funded research and tool development, diversify participation, and increase the
pace, scope, and quality of neuroscientific discovery.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10973868
- **Project number:** 1U24MH137478-01
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH
- **Principal Investigator:** Shaochung Victor Hsia
- **Activity code:** U24 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $886,789
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2024-08-01 → 2027-06-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10973868

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10973868, The BRAIN-STORRM Network for AAV vector manufacture and distribution (1U24MH137478-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10973868. Licensed CC0.

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