Description
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) plans to procure on a sole source basis with Noldus Information Technology, Inc., 1503 Edwards Ferry Roaf, Leesburg, Virginia 20176 for the EthoVision®XT 8.5 - First License. The goal of this research program is to identify specific neuronal circuits in the brain modulating changes in food intake and energy expenditure. To achieve this, we will employ stereotaxic surgeries to deliver a number of genetic tools to specific anatomical regions of the mouse brain. These tools include methodologies for manipulating neuronal function (Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs AKA DREADDs, Channelrhodopsin, Halorhodopsin), monitoring neuronal activity (GCamp) and mapping connections (GFP, mCherry). The majority of the neural networks found in rodents, such as mice are highly conserved in humans. Thus, a clearer understanding of these circuits, the molecular mechanisms and function role, will lead to novel ways to combat human diseases such as obesity, diabetes and anorexia. EthoVision XT is a video tracking software that tracks and analyzes the behavior, movement, and activity of any animal without the use of sensors. It is a versatile platform for straight-forward tracking of sophisticated protocols that control external devices.

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 511210 and the business size standard is $25.0 Million.

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 believes 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. An original and one copy of the capability statement must be received in the NIDDK 4cquisitions Branch on or before 11:00 AM EST on August 29, 2012. No electronic capability statements will be accepted (i.e. email or fax); an original and one copy must be sent to the NIDDK Acquisitions Branch to the address stated above. All questions must be in writing and can be faxed to 301-402-8501 or emailed to V. Lynn Griffin, Business Opportunity Specialist at [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 Central Contractor Registration (CCR) http://www.ccr.gov and the Online Representations and Certifications Applications (ORCA), http://orca.bpn.gov . No collect calls will be accepted. Please reference solicitation number NIHLM2012444 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)."