Neuroscience is a technique-driven discipline that, at its core, involves the complex interplay of molecules, neurons and processes of the nervous system. Much of what is now known about the mechanisms underlying vision, hearing, learning, breathing, and human behavior was first discovered in the laboratory. Neuroscientists require not only biologicals and instrumentation that are commonplace in the life sciences, but also need access to specialized reagents and equipment because of the nature of their work. Through their research, neuroscientists:
· Describe the brain and how it functions;
· Determine how the nervous system develops, matures and maintains itself;
· Discover how to prevent and/or cure neurological and psychiatric disorders. Based on a 31-question survey of neuroscientists conducting basic, translational and clinical research, The Neuroscience Perspective: Opportunities for Market Entry & Expansion, provides suppliers with critical information regarding neuroscientists' preferred techniques and instrumentation in four strategic areas: nucleic acids, proteins, cells and imaging. The report offers suppliers a unique look at current and future spending for neuroscience-related technologies and identifies areas where suppliers can enter the neuroscience market based upon the adoption of new research techniques. Advances in genomic technology and neuroimaging coupled with a wider range of model organisms has made it possible to conduct more complicated experiments to learn how neurons communicate with one another. More than any other life science discipline, neuroscience research requires a multi-level approach involving molecular, cellular, systems, translational, and integrative tools. By using this report to understand the actual needs and preferences of neuroscientists, suppliers will be better able to position their products to this specialized customer segment. Given the significant impact of nervous system diseases on a nation's public health and economy-nearly one in three Americans will suffer from a nervous system-related disease during his or her lifetime; these diseases account for six out of the ten most common disabilities in the United States1-increased funding for neuroscience research has been a top priority of the National Institutes of Health. In fact, the research budget for the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) has almost doubled since 1998 from $661 million to $1.3 billion for 20042. In addition to this financial investment, NINDS, like other national centers of excellence, is hoping to spur on discovery in the areas of development, degeneration and plasticity of the nervous system. This report reveals which avenues of exploration will receive more resources in 2006 and thus will be in need of additional support from suppliers.
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