PCA-NIMH-02243 Purchase Description FINAL.pdf

PURCHASE DESCRIPTION

Jess Automated Western Blot System

1. Statement of Need and Purpose

The Molecular Imaging Branch (MIB) at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) requires the acquisition of an automated, capillary‑based size‑separation nano‑immunoassay platform for quantitative characterization of protein molecular weights from denatured lysates. The system must automate traditional Western blot steps and provide true quantitation to support reproducible, standardized, and efficient protein analysis. This capability is necessary to increase laboratory throughput, reduce operator‑dependent variability, and ensure consistent data output suitable for sharing across investigators and research programs. To ensure successful deployment and standardized use, the acquisition must include both virtual and on‑site training delivered by the manufacturer.

2. Background Information and Objective

Traditional Western blotting is labor‑intensive, multi‑step, and prone to variability.

Automated capillary‑based systems, such as the Simple Western Jess, modernize this workflow by eliminating manual gel preparation and transfer steps while enabling fully automated detection and quantitative software‑driven analysis. Jess is widely adopted for automated molecular weight separation, immunodetection, and quantitative reporting via Compass software.

Because capillary‑based workflows and Compass‑based analysis differ substantially from manual Western blotting, structured training is required to ensure that personnel understand system operation, assay setup, electropherogram interpretation, and troubleshooting. Vendor‑delivered training will reduce variability, accelerate implementation, and support data reproducibility aligned with program objectives.

3. Generic Name of Product Jess Automated Western Blot System

Brand Name Justification

The Jess Automated Western Blot Systemis required by brand name under ProteinSimple because the minimum scientific and operational needs of the MIB cannot be met by any other available instrument. Market research demonstrates that comparable systems do not provide equivalent automated capillary‑based nano‑immunoassay separation, nor do they offer Jess‑specific features such as chemiluminescent and dual‑color fluorescence detection, RePlex™ sequential probing, and integrated Compass software for standardized quantitative analysis. These capabilities are essential for producing reproducible, low‑variability, quantitative protein data that align with established MIB workflows.

Alternative platforms rely on manual or semi‑automated blotting steps, lack required detection sensitivity, cannot produce quantitative electropherogram‑based outputs, or are incompatible with existing data analysis pipelines. As a result, they cannot satisfy the Government’s minimum needs. While the requirement specifies a brand‑name item, competition among authorized resellers will be sought to the maximum extent practicable.

4. Purchase Description

The acquisition shall include one automated capillary‑based nano‑immunoassay system with associated computer hardware and software, warranty service upgrades, comprehensive operator training, and all freight and handling necessary for delivery.

Components included in the requirement are:

a. Quantity 1 - Automated Capillary‑Based Immunoassay System Catalog# 004‑650

A benchtop capillary‑based separation and immunodetection instrument capable of chemiluminescent and dual‑color fluorescence detection, including RePlex™ functionality for sequential probing. The system shall include the instrument, an operational computer with Windows® operating system, a multi‑seat Compass analysis software license, and a one‑year standard warranty providing depot‑level service.

b. Quantity 1 Warranty Service Upgrade Catalog# S‑Jess‑FSO

An upgraded warranty service plan that replaces depot repair services with on‑site field service coverage. The upgrade shall include all required parts, labor, and travel for warranty repairs during the coverage period and must be in effect at the time of instrument purchase.

c. Quantity 1 - Operator Training Package Catalog# CTC‑0002

A comprehensive training program covering instrument operation, assay setup, method development, troubleshooting, and application‑specific guidance using Government‑provided samples. The training package shall include virtual instruction, access to self‑learning resources, a chemiluminescence and fluorescence training kit, support from a field applications scientist (FAS), and one voucher for classroom and hands‑on training (hands‑on limited to three personnel;

classroom attendance unlimited). Travel required for on‑site instruction is included.

d. Freight and Handling

All shipping, handling, and logistics necessary to ensure safe delivery of the system and associated materials.

5. Salient Characteristics

• Automated capillary‑based separation and immunodetection

• Quantitative performance meeting required CV thresholds

• Chemiluminescent and fluorescence sensitivity in the picogram range

• 3–4 log dynamic range

• Runtime under 3 hours; 25‑sample throughput

• Low‑volume sample processing (3 μL per well; ~400 nL capillary volume)

• MW sizing range of at least 2–440 kDa

• Integrated Compass software v6.0 or later

• Benchtop footprint and standard laboratory environmental requirements

• Required operator training

• Required warranty services

6. Delivery: 30 days after receipt of award.

7. Delivery Location

The Jess Automated Western Blot System will be delivered to NIH Campus in Bethesda, MD 20892. Location will be provided at time of award.

8. Evaluation Criteria:

Evaluation will be conducted using the Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) method, with technical acceptability determined based on the salient characteristics described in this Purchase Description.