The Firm Fixed PO will include the following:

1. U-PLEX Biomarker Group 1 (hu) Assays, SECTOR (25 PL) - K15067L-4 (2 EA).

Meso Scale Discovery U-PLEX Biomarker Group 1 (hu) Assays, SECTOR (5 PL) - K15067L-4:

MSD's preconfigured U-PLEX panels can be customized to include only the validated assays needed for a particular research project. MSD's custom U-PLEX orders typically ship in 1 to 3 days. MSD's proprietary MULTI-ARRAY technology (featuring both electrochemiluminescent detection and protein arrays) brings sensitivity, expanded dynamic range, speed and high density of information to biological assays. MSD's U-PLEX assays are offered as fully customizable groups that include a broad menu of analytes assembled together by species, sample abundance, analytical compatibility, range in serum and plasma samples, and expected use. The U-PLEX Biomarker Group 1 panel is a custom combination of analytes from a selection of MSD® assays. The U-PLEX Biomarker Group 1 (hu) contains 40 cytokines and chemokines that are important in many biological processes.

USDA ARS, WHNRC is attaining these Reagents for ongoing human study research and must continue using the same cytokine kits & assays with the MESO Instrument (USDA purchased & owned) to maintain consistency.

Pursuant to the authority of 41 U.S.C. 253(c)(1) and FAR 6.302-1, Only One Responsible Source and No Other Supplies or Services Will Satisfy Agency Requirements.

The award date will be on or about February 20, 2018; and this Notice of Intent is not considered as a Request for Quotation (RFQ) nor is it a Request for Proposals (RFP). No solicitation document is available and telephone requests will not be honored. Interested parties may identify their interest and capability to respond to this requirement. A determination, by the Government, to compete this proposed PO based on responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. The Government will consider all responses received by 9:30AM PST, February 18, 2018. Information received will be considered solely for determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement. Inquiries will only be accepted via email to the Primary Point of Contact: [email protected].