65--Procurement Nikon C1SI spectral imaging confocal

The VA Connecticut Healthcare System intends to negotiate a sole source procurement with MVI, of 11 Robbie Road, Avon MA, 02322 regarding a Nikon C1 SI spectral imaging confocal system. This system is essential for on going analysis of the molecular basis for anonal degenergation in spinal cord injury and MS and the unambiquos identification of engrafted cells within damaged spinal cord. This is a state of the art confocal system thatv shall be intregally-mjounted tom our existing Nikon E600 light microscope. The micro scope and spectral imaging confocal system are manufactured by the same company (Nikon) the are known to compatible and reliable. The Nikon C1 SI is only known to be avaiable through MVI the only regional authorized vendor. It is therefore imperative for the continuity of sound patient care that this confocal system be procured through MVI. This procurement is under the authority of FAR 6.302. A determinationb based upon responses to this notice is soley within the discretion of cthe Government. Information received will be considered soley for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement. See note 22