Request for Proposals: Plasma Separation without Centrifugation

NineSigma, representing a multi-billion dollar major manufacturer, seeks a system (device) that can quickly separate plasma from whole blood at the blood collection site without the use of a centrifuge. Moreover, it is desirable that the device or element technology (such as a filter) can be integrated with or can be attached to the blood collection tube or syringe.

Background

The client seeks a device for rapidly separating plasma on site in order to get the storage stability of the components in the blood. For very small amounts of plasma separation, plasma separation kits are commercially available. The client desires separation of plasma of 150mL or more, but has yet to find a device that enables such amounts of separation.

The current non-centrifugal plasma separation methods make use of filters or microchannels. The filter method can process large amounts of plasma, but the problem is that some membrane materials cause specific binding with substances in the blood. The amount of processing for the microchannel method is also problematic because it can process only small amounts of blood.

In recent years, there has been an increasing demand for a system that allows rapid blood testing anywhere, along with the growing need for point of care testing or the aim for expansion of blood testing in developing countries where the medical equipment is inadequate. Researchers in academia and companies have carried out technological development aimed at overcoming the above problems through the use of filters and microchannels.

Believing that promising technologies may exist somewhere in the world, the client has issued this open request to further accelerate their research and development.

Anticipated Project Phases

The client will review submitted proposals and possibly ask clarifying questions before selecting the most suitable candidates for collaboration. The client will select the best candidate(s) through evaluations. During the selection process, the client may execute non-disclosure agreements (NDA) with selected respondent(s), seek further information disclosure, and discuss specific development targets or potential opportunities.

The client will execute necessary agreement(s) with the selected respondent(s) and move to the advanced development phase. Specifics of any collaboration will be determined through consultation with the concerned parties.

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