Description
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) intends to negotiate on a sole source basis with Ozgene PTY LTD, 5 Parker Place, WA Technology Park, Bentley, Australia 6102 to construct a targeting vector (plasmid DNA construct) and generate a knock-in mouse.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) , Lab of Endocrinology and Receptor Biology performs research studies on Thyroid Hormones. Thyroid hormone is important for tissue development and for maintaining general health in adulthood. The active form of thyroid hormone (triiodothyronine) can be generated in certain target tissues by de-iodination from thyroxine by the type 2 deiodinase enzyme (encoded by Dio2 gene). This local generation of the active form of thyroid hormone is believed to be critical in certain tissues to augment the low levels of triiodothyronine present in the circulation. To understand more precisely the tissues and cell types in which type 2 deiodinase functions, it is important to be able to trace the expression pattern of the Dio2 gene. This has been a difficult challenge because the protein is expressed at low levels and has a short half-life. There is no antibody available that reliably detects type 2 deiodinase in natural tissues. The knock-in mouse model proposed in this project is designed to bypass these difficulties and allow sensitive detection of type 2 deiodinase protein in natural tissues.

The purpose of the acquisition is to have Ozgene Pty Ltd construct a targeting vector (plasmid DNA construct) and generate a knock-in mouse. Ozgene is the only company provider for gene targeting services using a new "goGermline" technology for high efficiency generation of mice carrying the targeted mutation in the germline. Using goGermline technology eliminates competition during uterine development from blastocysts that are composed primarily of host embryonic cells and allows generation only of progeny derived from recombinant embryonic stem cells. This technology provides three notable benefits. First, it enhances the probability of success in establishing germline transmission; secondly, it reduces the number of ‘unwanted' animals; thirdly, it speeds up the timeline of the project.

All the intellectual property (IP) and materials generated under this project belong to the NIDDK. Ozgene does not have ownership over any client mouse lines or IP, and will not resell any client mouse lines to third parties.

This acquisition will be processed in accordance with simplified acquisition procedures as stated in FAR Part 13.106-1(b)(1). The North American Industry Classification System Code is 541711 and the business size standard is 500.

Only one award will be made as a result of this solicitation. This will be awarded as a firm-fixed price type contract.

This is not a solicitation for competitive quotations. However, if any interested party believed they can meet the above requirement, they may submit a statement of capabilities. All information furnished must be in writing and must contain sufficient detail to allow the NIDDK to determine if it can meet the above unique specifications described herein. A capability statement must be submitted electronically to Linda Smith, Contract Specialist at Linda.Smith2@nih on or before 11:00 AM EST on August 3, 2015. All questions must be in writing and emailed to Linda Smith, Contract Specialist @ [email protected].  

A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed contract 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. In order to receive an award, contractor must be registered and have valid certification in the System for Award Management (SAM) [formerly CCR] http://www.sam.gov . No collect calls will be accepted. Please reference solicitation number NIHLM2015-574 on all correspondences.

Confidentiality - No proprietary, classified, confidential, or sensitive information should be included in your response. The Government reserves the right to use any non-proprietary technical information in any resultant solicitation(s)."