DNA Extraction - Low Throughput Systems

The requirement is for systems which extract human DNA from whole blood and other tissues to carry out a range of DNA-based diagnostic tests. In support of providing these services, we need the ability to extract genomic DNA from human blood and other sources including but not limited to saliva, buccal swabs, plasma, serum and selected cell populations. This procurement encompasses two NHSBT business units which use low throughput DNA extraction systems for diagnostic purposes:

• a)Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics (H&I)
• b)Red Cell Immunohaematology (RCI)

Low throughput DNA extraction is an automated extraction of smaller batches 8-24 samples, although the system must be capable of extraction of single samples for on-call purposes. Typical run time is less than 45 minutes. Within H&I the systems are used to extract DNA from clinical referrals for downstream testing including on-call deceased donor typing.

This Contract is for a period of 7 years with option to extend for up to 3 further years depending on performance. It is the intension of NHSBT to award a Contract for these requirements by August 2022. Welsh Blood Service will be able to purchase against the Contract.

Further information can be obtained from the procurement documentation.