The National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) have a requirement to purchase a Chromosome 21/22 Array Set (Forward) 6 Arrays and Chromosome 21/22 Array Set (Reverse) 6 Arrays from Affymetrix, Inc., 3380 Central Expressway, Santa Clara, CA 95051. The Institute intends to purchase this system by other than full and open competition from Affymetrix, Inc.. To the best of the Government’s knowledge, they are the sole manufacturer and distributor of this equipment. Interested vendors may identify in writing their interest with a capability statement to the Contracting Office prior to the closing date of this notice. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive proposals, however, all responses received before the closing date of this announcement will be considered by the Government. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed acquisition is based upon responses to this notice and is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement. It is anticipated that the request for Quotation (RFQ) NIH-NIDDK-05-357 will be available fifteen (15) days after the publication date of this synopsis. The anticipated award date is November 16, 2004. Request for copies of the RFQ must be in writing and may be FAXED to 301-480-4226. Quotations must be submitted in writing to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases 6707 Democracy Blvd., Room 773, Bethesda, Maryland 20817 Attention: Diana Ly. FAX quotations must contain offerors names, address, telephone number and fax number. FAX quotations will only be accepted if dated and signed by an authorized company representative.

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