National Cancer Institute, Research Contracts Branch, PSAS, 6120 Executive Blvd, EPS/Room 638, Bethesda, MD 20892-7227

66 -- 3700 AUTOMATED DNA SEQUENCER SOL RFQ90030-NS DUE 123198 POC Patricia Haun, Purchasing Agent, (301) 402-4509 The National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Cancer Institute (NCI), Laboratory of Population Genetics (LPG) proposes to procure a 3700 Automated DNA Sequencer from PE Biosystems, 850 Lincoln Centre Drive, Foster City, CA 94404. The automated DNA sequencer is required to perform high throughput processing for "state of the art" genomic analyses, including DNA sequencing and genotyping. The LPG requires a sequencer that is capable of using a 4-color dye system that allows data from 1 sample/lane and is capable of running at least 96 samples per run. The LPG requires the flexibility of using both primer-labeled and terminator-labeled sequencing chemistries in the same run using advanced fluorescein donor dyes linked to dichlororhodamine acceptor dye systems. In addition, the instrument shall: 1) enable analysis of 96 (or more) samples simultaneously; 2) be capable of running at least 24 hours unattended; 3) be able to automatically load 96 (or more) capillaries and allow for random loading, repeating sample runs, and/or performing multiple sample runs; 4) possess the capability of running alternative capillaries should capillaries fail; 5) utilize CCD detection technology, and spectrograph analysis for color separation; 6) have a flexible detection system capable of detecting new dyes as they are introduced into reagent sets; 7) collect and store data while samples are being electrophoresed; 8) meet LPG's required sequencing accuracy standards for plasmid samples: 500 bases @ 98 % accuracy for the equivalent of a 36 cm well to read run; 9) support single-stranded M13 sample, plasmid, and large fragment analysis and 10) include integrated software analysis packages for analyzing the sequencing data and genotyping data, including calling alleles. Data must be generated in a format compatible with existing current genetic analysis software packages such as Genotyper, Sequencing Analysis, Wisconsin GCG, and the Phred and Phrap packages. PE Biosystems is the only source known to NCI that can meet the above requirements, especially with regard to the NCI throughput and turnaround time for data acquisition and automated sequencing, required accuracy, unattended runs, and supporting the aforementioned variety of analyses. If any interested party believes it can provide the above system, along with installation, it may submit a statement of capabilities. The statement of capabilities and any other information furnished must be in writing and must contain material in sufficient detail to allow NCI to determine if the party can meet this requirement. Capability statements must be received in the contracting office by 1:00 p.m. EST, on December 31, 1998. If you have any questions, please contact Patricia Haun, Purchasing Agent on (301) 402-4509. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed requirement 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. No collect calls will be accepted. Posted 12/16/98 (W-SN280779). (0350)

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