Development and Validation of an Antibody for Detection of Lysine Homocysteinylation in Cobalamin Disorders

The National Institutes of Health OLAO has issued this pre-solicitation notice for the development and validation of a novel post-translational modification-specific antibody. This requirement supports biomedical research on rare genetic diseases and precision medicine, specifically addressing the current lack of a commercially available antibody against N-homocysteine-lysine. The project involves synthesizing and purifying peptide antigens, conjugating them to carrier proteins, and immunizing rabbits to generate polyclonal antibodies. The resulting sera will be tested on laboratory samples from mouse models of MMACHC deficiency and through ELISA screening to ensure specificity before a terminal bleed and final antibody purification.

This acquisition is designated under NAICS 541714 for Research and Development in Biotechnology (except Nanobiotechnology) and PSC Q301 for Medical Laboratory Testing. The opportunity is categorized under a Small Business Administration (SBA) set-aside. Performance will take place in Maryland, with a response deadline of June 13, 2026. Solicitation number 75N98026Q00506 includes one attachment detailing the requirements.

The primary objective is to characterize proteins affected by aberrant post-translational modification to improve the understanding of disease development and facilitate the design of future targeted therapies. The contractor will follow specific peptide sequences based on government scientific models to ensure the generated antibody works effectively. All activities, from antigen synthesis to the purification of the working antibody from serum, are managed through the National Institutes of Health.