Description
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking information from qualified vendors that can develop and produce a kidney glomerular endothelial cell (GEC)‑specific adeno‑associated virus (AAV) vector for pre‑clinical research. The effort is funded as a VA ORD merit‑funded project and spans up to two years, encompassing peptide engineering, vector production, in‑vitro and in‑vivo testing, and comprehensive reporting. Vendors must demonstrate extensive BSL‑2 laboratory capabilities, experience with AAV capsid modification, and compliance with AAALAC/FELASA standards. The solicitation is a Sources‑Sought/Request for Information; no price is set, but the government may later issue a solicitation based on responses.
• Develop and incorporate a GEC‑targeting peptide into AAV VP1 capsid (position 588/589) and produce vectors with eGFP reporter.
• Perform binding, internalization, and specificity/efficacy studies in cultured kidney slices and murine models, including bioluminescence imaging and PCR validation.
• Provide quarterly progress reports, weekly videoconferences, and bi‑annual face‑to‑face meetings (including a trip to Finland).
• Maintain dedicated cell‑culture, histology, BSL‑2, and advanced analytical equipment (e.g., Agilent Fragment Analyzer, qPCR/ddPCR platforms, flow cytometers).