European research networks to facilitate drug research in children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Pharmacology
• Translational Research
• Clinical Trial Management

Background:

• Paediatric drug development is hindered by fragmented stakeholders and inconsistent research processes.
• Addressing these challenges is crucial for advancing safe and effective medicines for children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent European initiatives aimed at overcoming barriers in paediatric drug development.
• To highlight exemplar infrastructures supporting preclinical and clinical research in this field.

Main Methods:

• Review of European initiatives in paediatric drug development.
• Description of two key initiatives: European Paediatric Translational Research Infrastructure (EPTR) and conect4children.
• Emphasis on stakeholder engagement, including children and advocates.

Main Results:

• The European Paediatric Translational Research Infrastructure supports essential preclinical research.
• conect4children facilitates the design and execution of paediatric clinical trials.
• Both initiatives integrate the perspectives of children and their advocates.

Conclusions:

• Coordinated research efforts are vital for paediatric drug development.
• These initiatives demonstrate successful strategies for improving research infrastructure and processes.
• Continued focus on coordination is necessary alongside scientific, resource, and policy advancements.