Published date: 12 April 2017
Closed opportunity - This means that the contract is currently closed. The buying department may be considering suppliers that have already applied, or no suitable offers were made.
Contract summary
Industry
Microscopes - 38510000
Miscellaneous evaluation or testing instruments - 38900000
Location of contract
London
Value of contract
£300,000
Procurement reference
NPLMGMT001-DN255772-20837627
Published date
12 April 2017
Closing date
15 May 2017
Contract start date
16 June 2017
Contract end date
13 June 2018
Contract type
Supply contract
Procedure type
Open procedure
Any interested supplier may submit a tender in response to an opportunity notice.
Contract is suitable for SMEs?
Yes
Contract is suitable for VCSEs?
Yes
Description
Introduction to the procurement.
Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) methods provide a powerful platform for high-throughput, high-resolution and high-sensitivity label-free 3D chemical analysis. However, there are critical limitations for the analysis of biological samples. The cryogenic sample preparative equipment, we are seeking to purchase, will expand our existing MSI infrastructure and enable us the development of measurement methodologies tailored specifically to biological samples (bacteria, bacterial biofilms, cells, tissues etc.) The equipment will significantly enhance our exiting capabilities, placing us in the position to pioneer the development of MSI metrology and methodologies specifically tailored to study biological samples such as bacteria, bacterial biofilms, cells and tissues. The system will enable imaging of cryogenically prepared samples with unprecedented detail and resolution by our unique instrumental capabilities, including the revolutionary 3D OrbiSIMS.
There is a gap in our infrastructure, which have to be filled in order to provide a comprehensive instrumental set-up, uniquely suited to study biological samples. This includes: Sample cryo-preparation system, including high pressure freezer, sample plunger and freeze substitution system; these capabilities will enable preparation and measurements of bacterial samples in frozen-hydrated state by high-vacuum of MS instruments. The immobilisation of water reduces ultrastructural reorganisation and the loss or translocation of exo-/endogenous molecules, which occurs with dehydration. Our revolutionary 3D OrbiSIMS instrument is already equipped with state-of-the-art cryo sample handling interface (Leica) allowing direct use of cryogenic samples and sample interchange between other cryo- instruments equipped with the Leica system. Compatible sample preparation capabilities will allow us to develop methodologies and to perform studies in a highly controlled and efficient manner, ensuring sample stability and minimal sample handling.
About the buyer
Contact name
Phil Scott
Address
National Physical Laboratory
Hampton Road
Teddington
TW11 0LW
England
Website
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Closing: 15 May 2017
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