U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, Contracts Management Division (MD-33), Attn: ORDSC, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711

88 -- PURCHASE OF EKER RATS SOL RFQ-RT-98-00943 POC Marsha B. Johnson, Contract Specialist, (919) 541-0952; Barbara H. Stearrett, Contracting Officer, (919) 541-3113 E-MAIL: click here to contact the contract specialist via, johnson.marsha@epamail.epa.gov. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency intends to negotiate a sole source simplified acquisition with the University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, P.O. Box 389, Smithville, TX 78957 to provide Eker Rats for an upcoming research project by The National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory. The Eker rat carries a spontaneous germline mutation of the Tsc2 gene with 100% of the animals developing renal tumors. This unique genetically defined rodent is useful in elucidating the molecular basis of the development of renal tumors. The Eker rats are to be shipped in groups as available beginning January 1, 1999 until complete. All animals not received in clinically healthy condition will be sacrificed and disposed of or returned to the vendor at no cost to the government. The proposed contract action is for supplies for which the Government intends to solicit and negotiate with only one source under the authority of FAR 6.302. EPA believes that the MD Anderson Cancer Center is the onlycontractor capable of satisfying the requirements stated above. No solicitation is available. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive proposals. All interested parties must identify their interest and capability to respond to the requirement within 15 days of the date of this announcement. A determination by the Government not to compete with this proposed contract based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Telephone or fax requests will not be honored. Submit response to the U.S. EPA, Attn: Marsha B. Johnson, (MD-33) Contracts Management Division, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711. See also numbered Note 26. Posted 09/30/98 (W-SN256703). (0273)

Loren Data Corp. http://www.ld.com (SYN# 0221 19981002\88-0001.SOL)