"Pre-clinical studies serve a vital role in the drug discovery and development processes. These studies can be used to identify lead compounds likely to possess favourable biopharmaceutical properties in humans. European Research Area is developing new methodologies and it is re-establishing standards in pre-clinical studies of active substances. Although in Serbia there are several institutions currently working on pre-clinical testing of active substances, they are usually specialized to only one aspect of testing. Further these institutions are old and inadequately equipped, with the insufficient number of trained researchers and absence of standardization in testing methodology. Thus, reinforcement of the existing capacities, networking and cooperation among existing laboratories and with ERA members are from the crucial importance. The main goal of this project is to establish Centre for pre-clinical testing of active substances (CPCTAS) at University of Kragujevac using the combine efforts of existing laboratories in central Serbia region. The existing laboratories will gain an opportunity to be part of the complete coordinated process of testing of active substances through CPCTAS and their common appearance to potential partners. The main activities necessary for the realization of this project are international cooperation through networking, exchange of know-how and experience and upgrading the research capacities to the highest quality. Central laboratory for pre-clinical testing will be organized at the Faculty of Science at University of Kragujevac, in coordination with Faculty of Medicine. The dissemination of CPCTAS development will be carried out through the website, contacting with Institutions of interest, and finally, accreditation of CPCTAS according to ISO standards, by respectable organization in Serbia and EU."