The University of Ottawa is pleased to invite qualified proponents to submit a proposal for a Fully Automated Tissue Microarrayer. The use of TMAs blocks allows the assembly of multiple representative samples, consisting of a powerful tool to study the expression pattern of different biomarkers. It represents a cost-effective and efficient application for research and for validation of processes, using techniques such as immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization or RNA in situ hybridization on a large scale.
General Description:
The proposed system will be used primarily for paraffin processing and embedding, freezing of tissues, paraffin and frozen sectioning, histochemical and immunohistochemical stains as well as digital pathology (scanning). We offer additional services to provide advice on experimental design, protocol development and training.
The tissue microarrayer is an instrument needs to be able to construct high quality multiple tissue blocks (tissue microarray blocks) with high throughput. The equipment needs to be able to remove minute tissue cylinders (0.6 to 2 mm) from numerous different donor blocks and assemble them in an array-like format into a recipient block. The proposed instrument must be a fully automated tissue microarrayer with computer-controlled system. It is important that the machine has a flexible and user-friendly interface and operating system, and that the company can provide broad and timely technical support.
Specifications listed in Appendix A – Technical Specifications Compliance Form of this RFP are the mandatory minimum requirements for the Fully Automated Tissue Microarrayer System.
1. Fully Automated Tissue Microarrayer
1.1 The proposed instrument must be a fully automated instrument with highthroughput workflow.
1.2 The proposed instrument must be a bench-top unit.
1.3 The proposed instrument must have at least 4 different core size – minimum size of 0.6, 1mm, 1.5mm and 2 mm.
1.4 The proposed instrument must be capable to punch and drill simultaneously.
1.5 The proposed instrument must have automatic block height measurement.
1.6 The proposed instrument must have automatic ability to detect and read barcode.
1.7 The proposed instrument must overlap digital slide image with the donor block.
1.8 The proposed instrument must capture the location of donor and recipient block core automatically.
1.9 The proposed instrument must save TMA data automatically.
2. Computer and Software:
2.1 The proposed instrument must come with a control computer,monitor, mouse and keyboard.
2.2 The proposed instrument must have a computer software for operating the system.
3. Operating Requirements:
3.1 The proposed instrument must have normal operating temperature of 15-32°C.
3. Warranty, training, and support
3.1 The proposed instrument must include a minimum of 1 year warranty, parts, and labor.
3.2 Proponent must be able perform on-site installation and training of the instrument and software.
3.3 Proponent must be able to perform remote desktop support and troubleshooting of the instrument.
