CNS Organoid Neuropharmacological Analysis
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), specifically the National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR), is conducting market research through a Sources Sought notice to identify potential sources for CNS Organoid Neuropharmacological Analysis. This effort aims to functionally examine neuromodulatory effects and transcriptomic changes of a marketed small molecule drug in human CNS-3D brain organoids. Responses are due May 4, 2026, by 13:00 hours Central Time.
Scope of Work
The objective is to characterize acute and chronic neuromodulatory effects (Ca2+ burst timing and variability) and the role of the 5-HT5A receptor using a specific inhibitor (SB-699551). The analysis also includes evaluating transcriptional changes induced by chronic drug exposure. The work requires the use of 28Bio human iPSC-derived CNS-3D organoids (10 weeks differentiation) that contain serotonergic neurons and astrocytes, express the 5-HT5A receptor, and exhibit spontaneous neuronal network activity. Testing involves Ca2+ flux measurement (FLIPR Tetra), waveform analysis, viability assessment (LDH-Glo assay), and RNA sequencing (RNAseq) for differential gene expression and pathway analysis. Deliverables include electronic files of study design, experimental conditions, raw data, analyzed results, statistical analyses, and final study reports.
Contract & Timeline
This is a Sources Sought for market research, not a solicitation. The anticipated contract type is Firm Fixed Price. The period of performance is projected from August 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027. The drug cost is limited to $1000. There will be no Government-Furnished Property/Information, security, or travel requirements.
- Response Due: May 4, 2026, 13:00 CT
- Published: April 24, 2026
Submission & Eligibility
Responses should be emailed to nick.sartain@fda.hhs.gov, referencing NCTR-2026-134171. Required information includes business details (name, UEI, address, size status, POC), descriptive literature demonstrating capability, three years of past performance, GSA Schedule/BIC/AbilityOne contract info (if applicable), Section 508 accessibility info, identification of restrictive specifications, subcontracting opportunities (for large businesses), warranty/payment terms, and informational pricing. The FDA is primarily seeking small business sources but encourages all businesses to submit capability statements. The relevant NAICS Code is 541380 (Testing Laboratories and Services) with a small business size standard of $19 million.
Additional Notes
This notice is solely for market research to determine the future acquisition strategy (e.g., small business set-aside, full and open, or sole-source). The government will not respond directly to comments, but all submissions will be considered. Proprietary or sensitive information should not be included in responses.