A--Provide Whole-genome genotyping assays andassociation analysis services

The Department of Veterans Affairs Mid Atlantic Health Care Network (VISN 6) intends to negotiate a sole source commercial item procurement with Duke Center for Human Genetics USA for providing whole-genotyping assays and association analysis services from VISN 6 MIRECC (Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center). . The VISN 6 MIRECC has the need for a vendor qualified to accomplish human whole genome genotyping and analysis from 500 de-identified, MIRECC acquired specimens using Illumina Infinium® Technology Hap550K bead station chips and analysis software. Extracted DNA data will be merged with de-identified diagnosis and mental health assessment data acquired by the MIRECC to identify trends in the genotyping data and potentially future treatment mapping projects. This proposed procurement is for supplies or services for which the government intends to solicit and negotiate with only one source under the authority of FAR 6.302. 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 Noon, 8/22/07, local time. 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. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement.