GeoMx DSP Analysis in support od the VA Portland Healthcare System, Portland, OR

The Department of Veterans Affairs is soliciting proposals for Digital Spatial Profiling (DSP) using GeoMx technology to support research at the VA Portland Healthcare System. This project aims to investigate the link between Agent Orange exposure and Parkinson’s disease by analyzing archived gastrointestinal biopsies. The contractor will perform comprehensive analysis services, including specimen handling, antibody hybridization, data acquisition, and delivery of processed digital data within a scheduled timeframe from sample receipt. The contract’s performance requirement stipulates that the contractor must demonstrate experience with neurodegeneration panels in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues and must utilize protocols consistent with past research projects. The period of performance ranges from September 1, 2025, to August 31, 2026, with deliverables including quality control metrics and digital data files. Payment terms specify monthly invoicing, and compliance with the Service Contract Act ensures fair labor conditions. This request for proposals reflects the government's dedication to advancing medical research for veterans, addressing historical exposure effects, and ensuring rigorous adherence to data quality and operational standards through certified laboratory practices. The project underscores the importance of collaboration between the VA and service providers to enhance understanding of neurodegenerative diseases and improve veteran health outcomes.

This document is an amendment to a solicitation issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs, Network Contracting Office 20 (V4CONT). The primary purpose of this amendment (Amendment/Modification Number 0001 to Solicitation Number 36C26025Q0789) is to extend the deadline for the receipt of offers. The new deadline for offer submissions is August 13, 2025, at 3:00 PM MDT. Offerors must acknowledge receipt of this amendment by returning signed copies, acknowledging it on their offer, or sending a separate communication referencing the solicitation and amendment numbers. Failure to acknowledge the amendment by the specified time may result in the rejection of the offer.

This government Request for Proposal (RFP) outlines the Department of Veterans Affairs' requirement for GeoMx Digital Spatial Profiling (DSP) services to analyze gastrointestinal biopsies for Parkinson's disease research. The project, with a performance period from September 1, 2025, to August 31, 2026, seeks a CLIA-certified contractor with demonstrated experience in neurodegeneration panels on GI FFPE tissue and specific expertise with GeoMx DSP technology. The selected vendor will perform turn-key analysis of up to 120 FFPE slides, including hybridization, UV-directed tag collection, nCounter read-out, data processing, and secure transfer of digital count matrices. Key requirements include local laboratory facilities for proper sample handling, adherence to strict quality control, and compliance with federal acquisition regulations. Payments will be made monthly via electronic funds transfer.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Network Contracting Office 20 issued Amendment 0002 to Solicitation 36C26025Q0789, dated July 28, 2025. This amendment, effective August 6, 2025, addresses a question regarding the project's history. The amendment clarifies that the service, utilized by VA Portland Healthcare Researchers, was previously obtained through Oregon Health & Science Universities Knight Laboratory, but not via a formal awarded contract. This indicates the project is not a re-compete but a new formal solicitation for services previously acquired informally. The amendment emphasizes the importance of acknowledging receipt to avoid rejection of offers.