6640--Optogenetic Fiber Photometry System

The Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Integrated Service Network 23 issued a sole-source award to Doric Lenses Inc. on September 1, 2026, for an Optogenetic Fiber Photometry System valued at $91,239.00, with a response deadline of September 8, 2026.

The Sioux Falls VA Health Care System procured a fully integrated fiber photometry and optogenetics platform comprising photometry consoles, fluorescence mini cubes (rotary and wireless variants), bundle-imaging components, FluoPulse lifetime-measurement technology, Neuroscience Studio V6 software, Danse software, and fiber-optic accessories. The system enables real-time monitoring and modulation of neuronal activity in freely moving animals while supporting simultaneous behavioral tracking and optogenetic manipulation.

The contracting office justified sole-source award on grounds that no alternative system integrates fiber photometry, optogenetics, neuronal imaging, electrophysiology, and behavioral tracking within one synchronized platform. Market research included a Sources Sought Notice posted December 9, 2025 (response deadline December 19, 2025) and an Intent to Sole Source notice posted January 7, 2026 (response deadline January 19, 2026). One vendor responded to the Sources Sought Notice but failed to provide supporting documentation; no responses were received for the Intent to Sole Source notice. Contracting Officer Joshua Imdacha certified on June 8, 2026, that sole-source award to Doric Lenses Inc. represents best value. Contracting Specialist Jennifer Watkins-Schoenig (319-688-3631 or jennifer.watkins-schoenig@va.gov) serves as the point of contact.