NanoSIMS analysis of mitochondrial metabolism in mouse models of neurodegeneration

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) and National Institutes of Health (NIH) plans to solicit quotes from Offerors that can demonstrate the capability of providing NanoSIMS analysis of mitochondrial metabolism in mouse models of neurodegeneration.

The Inherited Movement Disorders Unit (IMDU) within NINDS will be conducting a study of in vivo protein and lipid turnover within mitochondria in mouse models of neurodegenerative disease that share defects in mitochondrial quality control. The NanoSIMS 50L instrument has the unique capability of detecting lipid and protein metabolism in individual mitochondria in situ. The IMDU has developed Novel Methods with the NanoSIMS 50L instrument for the detection of protein turnover in individual mitochondria and other organelles (recently publications include PMIDs 31719114 and 32706155 - "https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28954518/"). The IMDU has been studying mitochondrial quality control processes disrupted by mutations in these genes, using mouse and cellular models.  

The IMDU plans to use the specialized methods developed to continue investigating in vivo lipid and protein turnover within individual mitochondria in mouse models of neurodegenerative disorders utilizing the NanoSIMS 50L instrument. Specifically, IMDU intends to study the loss of mitochondrial quality control results in neurodegeneration and is responsible for some genetic forms of Parkinson’s disease, ALS, and myopathy. In particular, mutations in the genes Parkin, PINK1, CHCHD2, and CHCHD10 directly affect mitochondrial quality control and cause neurodegeneration.

Offerors shall demonstrate the required capabilities and in-depth knowledge in the areas listed below:

1. Furnish the necessary services, qualified personnel, materials, equipment not otherwise provided by the Government, to utilize the methods described above to measure protein and lipid metabolism within single mitochondria in situ, using the NanoSIMS 50L instrument.
2. Measure protein metabolism and turnover within single mitochondria and other organelles in situ to allow for the assessment of in vivo protein and lipid turnover within individual mitochondria in models of neurodegeneration due to loss of mitochondrial quality control.
3. Utilize the Novel Methods described above to perform NanoSIMS 50L analysis on tissues, cells, and isolated mitochondria and organelle samples prepared by the IMDU to assess protein and lipid metabolism within single mitochondria.
4. Receive samples provided by IMDU (samples are shipped and stored at room temperature).
5. Prepare samples for NanoSIMS analysis, according to the Offeror’s standard procedures to maximize the quality of the analysis.
6. Perform analysis and operation of the NanoSIMS 50L equipment by the facility Lab Manager.
7. Preparation and dissemination of data files to IMDU.
8. Provide at least 2 weeks of instrument time per year using the NanoSIMS 50L instrument.

Offerors shall meet the following Mandatory Criteria:

1. PhD physicist with at least 5+ year experience operating the NanoSIMS 50L instrument.
   • Experience with correlated transmission electron microscopy and NanoSIMS analysis.
   • Experience measuring protein turnover in single organelles in situ, using 15N labelled amino acids.
   • Experience using APEX as a genetically encoded reporter in NanoSIMS analysis.

NIDA anticipates that one (1) firm-fixed-price contract will be awarded with a base period of 12 months with four 12-month options. In addition to the options to extend the contract period, option quantities

are also anticipated. The options will be exercised in accordance with FAR Clauses 52.217-7 Option for Increased Quantity-Separately Priced Line Item and 52.217-9 Option to Extend the Term of the Contract.

RFQ No. 75N95021Q00166 will be available electronically on or about May 19, 2021. You can access the RFQ through the Beta.SAM. All information required for the submission of a quote will be contained in or accessible through the RFQ package. Responses to the RFQ will be due on or around June 1, 2021. NIDA will consider quotes submitted by any responsible offeror. This advertisement does not commit the Government to award a contract.

Based upon market research, the Government is not using the policies contained in Part 12, Acquisition of Commercial Items, in its solicitation for the described supplies or services. However, interested persons may identify to the Contracting Officer their interest and capability to satisfy the Government's requirement with a commercial item within 15 days of this notice.