The National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Cancer Institute (NCI), Center for Cancer Research (CCR), Radiation Oncology Branch (ROB), plans to procure on a sole source basis for SirT3 knockout mouse from Lexicon Genetics, 4000 Research Forest Dr., The Woodlands, TX 77381. The ROB has a research laboratory and patient treatment clinic. The research being performed by the branch has the ability to translate findings into potential treatments to patients with cancer. One of the studies currently being undertaken by the ROB is to look at and study aging and cancer. As part of this study the end user requires SirT3 knockout mouse. The SirT3 knockout mouse is made via a system that randomly knocks out a gene in the genome. The technique for disrupting the SirT3 knockout mouse is solely licensed to Lexicon Genetics and only available through them. (Patent number 4,959,317) Lexicon Genetics is the only known contractor that can provide a SirT3 knockout mouse that is required by the end-user. This item is commercial as defined in FAR Part 2, and this acquisition is being made in accordance with the test program using simplified procedures for certain commercial items as authorized in FAR 13.5. This is not a request for competitive quotation. However, if any interested party believes it can provide a SirT3 knockout mouse it may submit a statement of capabilities. The researcher is only interested in the SirT3 knockout mouse and offers of alternative gene knockout mice will not be considered. The statement of capabilities and any other information furnished must be in writing and must contain material in sufficient detail to allow the researcher to determine if the party can perform this requirement. An original and one copy of the capability statements must be received in the contracting office by 1:00 p.m. EST, on March 21, 2005, faxed and emailed capability statements are NOT authorized. All questions must be in writing and can be faxed to (301) 402-4513 or emailed to [email protected] . It is the vendor’s responsibility to call (301) 402-4509 to insure questions have been received. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed requirement based upon responses to this notice 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. No collect call will be accepted. NAICS 112990, Size Standard $0.75 Million

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