RFI BAS2550523 QnA.pdf
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- Attached to
- Request for Information; Direct Amplification Kits Capable of Processing DNA Databasing Samples
- Solicitation number
- BAS2550523
About this file
This is a Questions and Answers document for RFI BAS2550523 regarding Direct Amplification Kits capable of processing DNA Databasing Samples for the FBI Laboratory Division. The document clarifies technical specifications and procurement details through a series of questions from potential vendors and FBI responses.
Key details include: The FBI plans to conduct side-by-side evaluations of eligible kits before making any award decisions. The main substrates used are Bode Buccal Collectors and Whatman EasiCollect (FTA cards). Current kit specifications require 40 vials/bottles per kit containing reaction mix, primer set, additive tubes and control tubes, with minimum 1,000 reactions per kit (FBI prefers 5K-10K reactions). The lab utilizes BSD punch instrument, Tecan robotics, and Thermo Fisher 3500 Genetic Analyzer. The RFI response deadline is February 5th, 2025 at 4:00 PM EST. The document emphasizes this is only for information gathering purposes and does not constitute a solicitation - any future solicitation will be posted on SAM.gov for vendors to monitor.
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| File | Type | Posted |
|---|---|---|
| FY25 RFI Direct Amplification Kit v2.pdf |
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Request for Information; Direct Amplification Kits Capable of Processing DNA Databasing Samples
SAM.gov Notice ID BAS2550523
Questions and Answers
Q. Does the FBI plan to perform a side-by-side evaluation of all eligible direct amplification kits being considered?
A. If a solicitation is released, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) would expect this type of testing and evaluation to be performed before any decision is made to switch kits and/or select an awardee.
Q. Currently, we understand Bode Buccal Collectors are the main substrate choice used for DNA database samples at the FBI. Can you please confirm what substrate(s) will be utilized with the
1.2 mm requested punch size for this RFI?
A. Bode collectors would be the main substrate processed in the FBI’s Laboratory. The Whatman easy collector (FTA card) would be the only other type processed in the FBI’s Laboratory.
Q. To consider minimal disruption of the current workflow, may we please have packing specifications on the current kits (STR Kit and Lysis Buffer)?
How many vials/bottles in a kit?
What are the vial/bottle sizes?
What is the maximum volume per vial/bottle?
Are there any special packaging lay out or dimensions required?
Are there any changes in packaging that you would like considered?
A. The current kit contains 10 bottles of reaction mix, 10 bottles of primer set, 10 additive tubes, and 10 control tubes.
Each kit has 40 vials/bottles.
5ml for reaction mix/primer set. 2ml for the additive and control.
5ml for reaction mix/primer set. 2ml for the additive and control.
The only special layout or packaging concerns would come in the form of reactions per kit. The minimum requirement is 1,000 (1K) reactions per kit. The FBI would prefer higher kit amounts, (e.g. 5K and 10K reactions).
Making the kit boxes uniform size helps with storage. For example, having the kits all the same size and rectangular, aids in storing them in the freezer. This maximizes the space we have.
Q. What are the current instruments, tools, and platforms for this workflow that need to be considered? (i.e. Is a decapper used? What is the make and model of the current robotic platform(s)?)
A. The Laboratory Division utilizes the BSD punch instrument, Tecan robotics, and the Thermo
Fisher 3500 Genetic Analyzer.
Q. What are the DNA sample collection matrices? Bode Buccal Collectors? EasiCollect (FTA card)?
Cotton swabs? Could you provide an estimate by percentage of each type that is processed?
A. The Bode Buccal collector is the main substrate processed in the FBI Laboratory. The only other substrate still processed would be the EasiCollect (FTA card).
Q. What is the timeframe until the Request for Bid will be posted?
A. If a solicitation is released, it will be synopsized on the SAM.gov website. It is the potential vendor’s responsibility to monitor this website for the release of any follow-on information.
Q. How long would it take after a decision for a purchase order to be issued?
A. This RFI is issued solely for information and planning purposes and does not constitute a solicitation. Responses to this RFI may be used to formulate final requirements and/or to identify qualified vendors capable of meeting those requirements. The information gathered from this RFI may be used to formulate acquisition strategies for competitive solicitations.
This RFI is designed to engage industry in a transparent manner for information and feedback to determine capability, viability, and cost. If further clarification is required, the Government reserves the right to engage with respondents for a more robust understanding. This clarification may be requested in the form of brief verbal communication by telephone or teleconference, written communication, or electronic communication.
23 January 2025
File details come from the government source that posted it. Updated .