Sole Source Notification for purchase of a Multiplex ELISA Bioplex Suspension Array System

The USDA, Agricultural Research Service intends to issue and award to Bio-Rad, 2000 Alfred Nobel Drive, Hercules, CA 9454, on a sole source basis. Award will be made pursuant to 41 U.S.C.253(c)(1)--Only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements. The U.S. Department of Agriculture proposes to sole source purchase a Multiplex ELISA Bioplex Suspension Array System Description of Supplies/Services: Bio-Rad Laboratories is the sole supplier of the Bio-Plex Suspension Array system a Bio-Plex Pro Wash Station. The components of this system facilitate hands-free washing of xMAP assays, data acquisition and analysis. Both catalog numbers 171-0CPHP1 and 171-0CPHP2 include the Bio-Plex Suspension Array System. This "assay reader" component includes and is uniquely distinguished by Bio-Plex ManagerTM software, Bio-Plex Validation Kit, and MCV (maintenance, calibration, and validation) plate included with the system. This combination allows the processing of xMAP assays built on either magnetic beads or non-magnetic beads. Multiplex ELISA analysis will be used to quantitate the levels of a large number of cytokines at one time. In addition to the Bio-Plex Suspension Array System, validation kit, and MCV plate, the two catalog numbers listed include one of two different versions of the Bio-Plex Pro wash station. Catalog number 171-0CPHP1 pairs the Bio-Plex Pro Wash Station with the Bio-Plex system. This combination allows the processing of xMAP assays built on magnetic beads. Catalog number 171-0CPHP2 pairs the Bio-Plex Suspension Array system with the Bio-Plex Pro II Wash Station. This system has the unique combination of Instrument, kits, unique magnetic beads, magnetic plate washer and service features including maintenance, calibration and validation, which meet the SRRC scientist research needs. The Multiplex ELISA system-Bioplex shall be installed, delivery FOB, to the USDA, ARS, SRRC, New Orleans, Louisiana. Responses are to be received within 15 days (noon CST, July 2, 2009) of this notice. The NAICS Code/Size is 813910 procurement will be processed pursuant to FAR part 12, Acquisition of Commercial Items. No telephone inquiries will be accepted. No solicitation will be issued. Questions can be e-mailed [email protected].