# Diagnosing the Unknown for Care and Advancing Science (DUCAS)

> **NIH NIH U2C** · HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL · 2024 · $4,173,694

## Abstract

ABSTRACT
The proposed project aims to address the challenges faced by approximately 30 million individuals in the
United States with undiagnosed or rare diseases by extending best practices from the Undiagnosed Diseases
Network (UDN) model. We seek to enhance access to evidence-based diagnostic, research, and care
practices, especially for historically underserved populations, through implementation science frameworks.
Specific aims include developing a framework for a learning health network, increasing access for underserved
communities, leveraging advanced technical solutions to enhance diagnosis and care, and ensuring continuity
of care for participants awaiting diagnosis. Methods involve evaluating implementation science frameworks,
gathering participant perspectives through qualitative methods, developing technical solutions, and supporting
ongoing research studies. Long-term objectives include integrating UDN methods into broader clinical practice
and improving outcomes for individuals with undiagnosed and rare diseases.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 11085798
- **Project number:** 3U2CNS132415-02S1
- **Recipient organization:** HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL
- **Principal Investigator:** HUGO J BELLEN
- **Activity code:** U2C (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $4,173,694
- **Award type:** 3
- **Project period:** 2023-04-19 → 2025-03-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/11085798

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 11085798, Diagnosing the Unknown for Care and Advancing Science (DUCAS) (3U2CNS132415-02S1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-25 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/11085798. Licensed CC0.

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