As the twenty-first century begins, however, the nature of neuroscience is changing. Boundaries between traditionally distinct fields are evaporating, and neuroscientists are interacting in an increasingly interdisciplinary fashion. Most importantly, there is growing hope that progress in basic research will generate new therapies for the many diseases that affect the nervous system. This hope is leading to more effective interaction between basic researchers and neurologists. In response to these changes, NINDS reorganized its extramural program around areas of scientific emphasis that cut across many of the traditional boundaries among disciplines (http://www.ninds.nih.gov/funding/neuroscience.htm). In addition, we have developed a variety of new initiatives that facilitate and encourage trends at the cutting edge of neuroscience. (http://www.ninds.nih.gov/funding/funding_opps_type.htm).
Development of new treatments in neuroscience must rest firmly on a foundation of basic knowledge. To promote the development of such treatments, NINDS will follow several key strategies:
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