Synthesis of Self-Amplifying Nucleic Acid Constructs

Statement of Work (SOW)

To procure services for the synthesis and encapsulation of five distinct lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-encapsulated self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) constructs based on the Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) genome components.

• Service Location: US National Poultry Research Center (USNPRC), Athens, GA.

• Constructs: Five saRNA constructs based on VEEV genome components.

• Gene Sizes:

  • Gene 1: 2625 nt
  • Gene 2: 2625 nt
  • Gene 3: 1305 nt
  • Gene 4: 3525 nt
  • Gene 5: 828 nt

• Process: Includes codon optimization for avian host expression, gene synthesis, plasmid cloning into VEEV self-amplification vector, linearization, and in vitro transcription (IVT) with 5' methyl cytidine.

• Encapsulation: Encapsulation of saRNA into SM10 lipid-based nanoparticles.

• Gene Optimization & Synthesis: Codon optimization and gene synthesis.

• RNA Production: Linearization and IVT.

  • Minimum Yield: 500 µg IVT RNA for genes 1-4; 1000 µg IVT RNA for gene 5.

• RNA Quality Assessment: Agarose gel electrophoresis or micro-capillary electrophoresis for integrity; fluorescence-based or UV absorbance for concentration.

• LNP Encapsulation: Encapsulation into SM10 lipid-based nanoparticles.

• Encapsulation Quality Control (QC): Verification of Encapsulation Efficiency (EE%), Polydispersity Index (PDI), Particle Size, Zeta Potential, presence of Endotoxins, and pH.

• Genes 1-4: One 1 mL aliquot containing 250 µg of encapsulated RNA per gene construct.

• Gene 5: Two 1 mL aliquots, each containing 250 µg of encapsulated RNA (total of 500 µg).

• Place: US National Poultry Research Center (USNPRC), 934 College Station Road, Athens, GA, 30605.

• Period: Not specified in this document.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items, issued as a Request for Quotation (RFQ), to generate five lipid nanoparticle encapsulated self-amplifying nucleic acid based on the genetic components of the alphavirus Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV). The acquisition is set-aside for small business concerns.

• Generation of five lipid nanoparticle encapsulated self-amplifying nucleic acid.

• Based on the genetic components of the alphavirus Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV).

• Detailed requirements are defined in the Statement of Work (Attachment 2).

• Anticipated contract type: Firm-fixed price requirements contract.

• Delivery: Within 30 days after award.

• F.O.B. Destination is requested.

• Offers are due by January 5, 2026, 4:00 PM Central Time.

• Quotations must be submitted electronically via email to jessica.pacheco@usda.gov.

• Evaluation will be based on lowest price technically acceptable criteria.

• Technical Acceptability will be evaluated for "acceptable" or "unacceptable" based on the offeror's ability to meet requirements.

• Past Performance will be evaluated using an "Acceptable," "Neutral," or "Unacceptable" rating.

• Offerors must provide a detailed explanation of any requirement listed in the SOW that cannot be successfully accomplished.

• The Government intends to award without discussions.

• Total Small Business Set-Aside.

• Applicable NAICS Code: 541380.

• Small business size standard: $19.0M.

• This announcement constitutes the only solicitation; no separate written solicitation will be issued.

• Full text of provisions and clauses may be accessed electronically at www.acquisition.gov.

• Offerors must be registered in SAM.gov.

• Offerors agree to hold prices firm for 90 calendar days from the offer receipt date.

• Questions are due by January 5, 2026.