Scope
Reference
C367576
Description
Tenders were invited to carry out a range of project delivery options, to deliver against stages 1, 2 and 3 as described below:
Stage 1: This case study is to support the UK FSA's policy need to determine which TAs are the most potent (neuro)toxicants so as to prioritise specific substances and inform decisions on the UK's monitoring of these alkaloids in foods. An integral part of this aim is to confirm that neurotoxicity is the primary mode of action of these alkaloids. This aim will be achieved using a tiered-testing strategy of in silico, in vitro and 'omics NAMs. This will then be extended to other plant alkaloids such as glycoalkaloids and pyridazine alkaloids.
Stage 2: To derive a HBGV for human exposure for the top priority, i.e. most potent substance within the class of TAs. This will utilise physiologically-based kinetic (PBK) modelling and quantitative in vitro to in vivo extrapolation (QIVIVE). This will then be extended to other plant alkaloids such as glycoalkaloids and pyridazine alkaloids.
Stage 3: From a methodological perspective, a broader third objective of the case study is to evaluate and attempt to build confidence within the FSA in the application of a series of relevant NAMs that have been integrated in a manner to address policy needs. These NAMs are tiered and incorporate existing human in vivo data as well as new testing on human in vitro cell lines, to maximise the relevance and accuracy to human food safety.
Please note contract start date is 22/09/2025
Contract 2. Utilising in silico, in vitro and ‘omics New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) for
Supplier
Contract value
- £488,375.50 excluding VAT
- £586,050.60 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Date signed
24 September 2025
Contract dates
- 25 September 2025 to 31 May 2028
- Possible extension to 31 August 2028
- 2 years, 11 months, 6 days
Description of possible extension:
The Buyer may extend the Contract for a period of up to 3 Months by giving not less than 10 Working Days' notice in writing to the Supplier prior to the Expiry Date. The Conditions of the Contract shall apply throughout any such extended period.
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 73110000 - Research services
- 73200000 - Research and development consultancy services
Key performance indicators
| Name | Description | Reporting frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Wellbeing: Improving Health and Wellbeing | To be agreed at the initiation meeting |
12 months |
Other information
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Direct award
Direct award justification
Single supplier - intellectual property or exclusive rights
University of Birmingham have IPR rights to the systems that will be used as part of the case study.
Supplier
University of Birmingham
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PHCQ-3464-LVTM
Edgbaston
Birmingham
B15 2TT
United Kingdom
Email: welcome@contacts.bham.ac.uk
Region: UKG31 - Birmingham
Small or medium-sized enterprise (SME): No
Voluntary, community or social enterprise (VCSE): No
Supported employment provider: No
Public service mutual: No
Contract 2. Utilising in silico, in vitro and 'omics New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) for
Contracting authority
Food Standards Agency
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PJRM-6866-LYYX
YO1 7PR
York
YO1 7PR
United Kingdom
Region: UKE21 - York
Organisation type: Public authority - central government