Miniature two-photon microscope system for mice

The Sources Sought Notice, Solicitation Number 75N95025Q00200, seeks information from qualified companies capable of providing a miniature two-photon microscope system for observing single neuron activity in freely moving mice, specifically for the National Institute on Drug Addiction (NIDA). The project aims to investigate the relationship between neural activities and behaviors in drug addiction research. Unlike the existing system, which requires mice to be restrained, the new system must be lightweight (around 2.5 g) and compact (approximately 20 x 10 x 30 mm), ensuring ease of use in performing tasks without hindrance. Responses to this notice are not proposals but should detail the company's ability to meet project requirements, including manufacturing location, size status under the applicable NAICS code, employee count, and any relevant contracts. Interested businesses must submit a capability statement to the designated Contracting Officer by July 7, 2025. The notice emphasizes that the government is not obligated to award contracts based on the responses or provide feedback, and confidentiality regarding proprietary information must be maintained. This inquiry primarily aims to assess the market and decide on a future solicitation for the required equipment.

Solicitation No. 75N95025Q00200 is a request for proposals for a miniature two-photon microscope system for mice, including installation and maintenance services, for the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). This acquisition is conducted under simplified acquisition procedures (FAR Parts 13 and 12) with a fixed-price purchase order contemplated. The NAICS code is 334516, and there are no set-aside restrictions. The system must record neural activity in unrestrained mice, be lightweight and compact, and preferably compatible with NIDA's existing Spectra-Physics Mai Tai HP laser. Delivery is required 90 days after award to the NIH Biomedical Research Center in Baltimore, MD. Proposals will be evaluated based on technical capability/functionality and price, with technical factors being paramount. Offerors must submit proposals demonstrating their ability to meet technical specifications, including a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and business size certification. All offerors must be actively registered in SAM.gov. Responses are due by August 28, 2025, 8:00 pm EST, to polina.klimenkova@nih.gov, referencing solicitation number 75N95025Q00200.

The document, "CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (Jan 2022)" (FAR 52.212-5), outlines mandatory and optional Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) clauses for contractors providing commercial products and services to the U.S. government. These clauses ensure compliance with various laws and Executive Orders covering ethical conduct, prohibition on certain foreign technologies (e.g., Kaspersky Lab, specific telecommunications equipment), small business utilization, labor standards (e.g., equal opportunity, minimum wage, anti-trafficking), environmental concerns (e.g., energy efficiency, ozone-depleting substances), and domestic sourcing (Buy American Act). It also details the Comptroller General's right to examine contractor records for contracts exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold. Crucially, the document specifies which FAR clauses must