In-Vitro Testing of New Psychoactive Substances (IVT-NPS)

Dstl have a requirement to procure a service for in-vitro testing of potentially psychoactive substances to support the implementation of the Psychoactive Substances Act (2016) hereafter referred to as the PSA. The testing involves pharmacological testing on immobilised cloned human cells against suspected psychoactive substances. The PSA makes it an offence to produce; supply; offer to supply; possess with intent to supply; import or export a psychoactive substance. In order to make provisions to support the Act there is a requirement to conduct in-vitro testing of Test Substances. This technical specification focuses on in vitro bioassays subdivided into binding and functional assays. The Supplier is required to conduct in vitro bioassays using relevant, robust and efficient receptor binding assay, transporter uptake/release and functional assay methodology for the selected molecular targets. This involves laboratory testing of substances to an accredited standard and preparation of test reports and associated documentation to support the criminal justice system. The Supplier may be expected to attend court but ordinarily the results are interpreted by an expert witness who will perform this function, if required, based on their statement to the court.