Modification No. 1 to Solicitation 163148. Answers to Questions Asked by another vendor: 1. How will NIH evaluate other vendors systems that would be functionally equivalent or superior for intended applications? The MALDI-TOF MS systems are replacements for a Bruker Daltonics UltraFlex purchased in 2002. The Microbiology Laboratory has partnered with Bruker to develop a microbial identification database using Bruker software to analyze spectra of clinical and reference strains of bacteria and yeasts. All discrepancies between identification by MS and biochemical testing were resolved by gene sequencing performed by the microbiology laboratory. Any alternative vendor system must have a comparable validated database. Additionally, vendors must have a research oriented system (such as the AutoFlex or UltraFlex) and a dedicated microbiology system (such as the MicroFlex). 2. What are the intended applications and purpose of use? And what will there required capabilities? The intended use of the equipment is to upgrade the existing a research oriented MALDI-TOF MS for both research and clinical applications (i.e., identification of microorganisms such as bacteria, norcadia, yeasts, and molds). 3. Will the end user consider reviewing other systems besides the one listed? No, because this requirement is for an upgrade to the existing system developed by Bruker Daltonics using a microbial identification database developed by the Microbiology Lab.

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