"PENTA-LABNET(PL) is a coordination action aimed at improving the range of products and clinical use of antiretrovirals(ARVs) in HIV-infected children in resource-rich and resource-limited countries. This will be achieved through building capacity of laboratories to undertake co-ordinated studies on pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and pharmacogenetics of new formulations and dosing and studies of viral and immune responses to novel regimens and strategies for using ARVs in children. PL forms a logical, necessary and cost-effective addition to the clinical-trial-focused research activities of the longstanding PENTA network, building on its existing operational infrastructures and expertise. To respond to emerging needs identified by EU as priority areas, the aim of PL is the development of a “drug centred” research platform, which will provide a complimentary range of activities focussed on supporting the rational selection of optimal dosage and delivery forms of ARVs, and providing the lab basis for evaluating new ARVs strategies in children. The definition, organisation and management of integrated pharmacological and viro/immunological studies to better characterise the concentration-exposure-effect relationship will be a central activity of PL. In support of these studies, standardised data collection systems will be established enabling linkage of clinical and laboratory data. In addition a central biobank will be set up to provide rapid identification of samples to be used for research. The laboratory and paediatric expertise generated in PL will support rapid assessment of new and existing individual and combined ARVs. The WHO will be a key partner of PL to define research priorities in ARV drug development and (also through PENTA’s extensive international links) to rapidly disseminate results to a range of stakeholders (e.g. EMEA and industries) and support the rapid translation of research findings into guidelines and practice for children in all settings"