Tab 04 4 Statement of Work

Statement of Work for Mouse Brain Sectioning

A. Introduction/ Background

This NASA Space Biosciences Project requires a comprehensive evaluation of the neuronal morphology of the mouse brain following exposure to simulated microgravity, radiation and isolation. Simulated spaceflight conditions have shown detrimental effects on neuronal architecture, synaptic integrity that has been correlated to functional behavioral deficits. Cryosectioning of the mouse brain for immunohistochemical analysis would enable in the assessment of alterations in brain morphology, oxidative damage, blood-brain barrier integrity, and other potential biomarkers.
With the upcoming NASA Artemis Missions, planned to send humans to the Moon, and the eventual Mars mission this analysis is crucial to derive optimal scientific data from rare and costly spaceflight analog experiments.
In view of NASA’s plans for space exploration and the increasing need for studies of model organisms to define the potential effects of extended exposure to the space environment on humans, an integrative approach is vital for answering important fundamental questions regarding changes in brain structure and function due to exposure space stressors. Immunohistochemical analyses on sections from different regions of the mouse brain will be correlated with the observed behavioral changes in these mice. This will provide invaluable data facilitating the interpretation of data acquired post exposure to radiation. Zyagen is the only vendor that can meet our sectioning requirements specifically designed for this project in a timely, precise and cost-efficient way. This core facility has the technical expertise that is extremely vital to ensure the efficient utilization of the available brain tissues. This service request includes planning and preliminary tests, embedding and sectioning for different mouse brain regions post exposure to radiation. Costs for disposable embedding molds, tissue and slide storing boxes, and OCT compound are also included in the quote.

B. Requirement Specifications

Technical requirements
This brain sectioning service should provide slides containing mouse brain sections (15 micron thick) from prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and substantia niagra. The service should include: 1) Brain sectioning
2) Collection of sections on slide
3) Shipment of the slides containing the brain sections. Time requirements
Slides containing brain sections must be delivered within 90 days after receipt of order (delivery