The Department of Veterans Affairs, Network Contracting Office 7, intends to negotiate a sole-source multi-year contract with the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Division of Rheumatology and Immunology on or around September 30, 2012 to provide research and development urine biomarkers of lupus nephritis pathology and response to therapy. The experiments will require part-time commitment of a research specialist with extensive experience in the experimental procedures proposed. An advanced technician is required to perform the Luminex multiplex assays and ELISAs for TWEAK, OPG, NAG, NGAL and Cyst C. Additionally, the project requires sophisticated biostatistical support for multilinear regression analysis for comparison to the novel ANN and NRN techniques. Last of all, the project will require the services of the MUSC Monoclonal Antibody Facility for clinical assay development to develop antibodies to ortho- and meta-tyrosine, to create the hybridomas, to produce and purify monoclonal antibodies from the hybridomas. . The individuals currently supported by the grant do not have the necessary skills to perform the tasks required. Based on progress of similar type experiments, the proposed work can be accomplished by utilizing specialized MUSC personnel and facilities not available at the VA Medical Center. NAICS Code: 541711 (Size Standard 500 employees) This proposed procurement is for services for which the government intends to solicit and negotiate with only one source in accordance with FAR 6.302-1(b)(1)(i), Only One Responsible Source and no Other Supplies or Services will Satisfy Agency Requirements. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive quotes. However, interested parties may identify their interest and capability to respond to this requirement no later than September 12, 5:00 p.m. EST. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed contract based on responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Point of Contact: Whitney Warrington, Contract Specialist (Fax: 478-277-6576; e-mail: [email protected])

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