VA Connecticut Healthcare System intends to negotiate a sole source procurement with Hebrew University of Jerusalem for a study of the “Relationship between Acetylcholinesterase Activity in Gulf War Deployed and Era Veterans and Symptoms of Mood and Anxiety Disorders." The purpose of the research is to determine whether mood and anxiety disorders or motor neuron diseases are related to serum levels of Acetylcholinesterase (AChE), Butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), and/or Paraoxonase (PON) among Gulf War deployed and era veterans. Laboratory analysis of stored blood samples will determine levels of AChE, BuChE, and PON among approximately 600 participants. The blood samples collected will be aliquoted and shipped, along with Study ID numbers only for analysis using enzyme kinetic assays for AChE, BuChE, and PON. This procurement is under the authority of FAR 6.302. All responses received by 2:00pm (local time) on September 18, 2003 will be considered by VA. Information received will be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement. A determination based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of VA.

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