FOR-FD-24-004: FDA Grant for Research on Topical Drug Product Pharmacokinetics

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a funding opportunity, numbered FOR-FD-24-004, focused on evaluating the cutaneous pharmacokinetics of topical drug products using pharmacokinetic tomography. This cooperative agreement is aimed at supporting research and development in advanced non-invasive technologies to assess how topically applied drugs disperse and become effective within the skin. The grant falls under the categories of agriculture, consumer protection, and food and nutrition, reflecting its broad impact on public health and safety.

The opportunity is open to a wide range of applicants, including educational institutions, governmental bodies, small businesses, non-profits, and others. The primary goal of this funding initiative is to develop technologies, such as quantitative tomography-based methods, that can accurately, sensitively, and reproducibly measure the amount of drug present in various skin layers. This research is expected to lead to a new, scientifically valid approach for demonstrating the bioequivalence of topical drug products, which is crucial for ensuring their efficacy and safety. With an award ceiling of $250,000, this grant represents a significant investment by the FDA in enhancing the understanding and regulation of topical drug products, an essential aspect of dermatological and pharmaceutical science. The funding will facilitate the development of innovative, non-invasive methods for drug evaluation, potentially revolutionizing the way topical drugs are tested and approved.