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The research team at Peterborough City Hospital is the first in Europe to enrol a patient to a trial which aims to improve treatment for patients with the autoimmune condition Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).

Lupus is a complex condition that can be challenging to treat. Many patients live with persistent symptoms that have a profound impact on their daily lives, affecting their physical health, wellbeing, and ability to work and participate in normal activities.

Charlene, from Peterborough, visited her GP after experiencing sore muscles and joints for around a year which she assumed was due to using the gym, fatigue from her busy schedule or even low iron. It was only when she developed swollen joints and sun burn, that she realised something was wrong. Following a blood test in August last year she discovered she had Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and, following the diagnosis, was referred to the Rheumatology department at Peterborough City Hospital.

Charlene said: “I couldn't quite believe it when the phone call came, I didn't know anything about SLE when I received my diagnosis and then I did the one thing that they tell you not to do with anything medical - I googled it, which was scary. It wasn't until I attended for my first appointment at Peterborough City Hospital that I felt calmer.”

The Trust's Research and Development Team contacted the patient to explain their work on the Gardenia Trial, which is supported by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). Gardenia is the first study of its kind to open across the Trust.

Charlene added: “When I was approached about the study, I was happy to be involved and to help raise more awareness and information about SLE. I had no knowledge of research prior to this so it's really interesting to see what happens and be a part of a study that can help change lives.”

Dr Poonam Sharma, Director of Research and Development who is also a Consultant Rheumatologist and Principal Investigator for the Gardenia study said: “I'm really proud of our research team who have made outstanding progress in recruiting participants to the various clinical trials we participate in and am proud to have enrolled Charlene as first patient in Europe to a Phase 3 Lupus study.”

It's hoped that studies like this will contribute to the development of more effective treatments, offering better disease control and improved quality of life for patients in the future.

Dr Sharma added: “This milestone reflects the team's dedication to advancing research and improving care for people living with Lupus. As Principal investigator for the study, I am very proud of this achievement and would like to congratulate the research department on this excellent milestone.”

Dr Maria Koufali, NIHR's Director of Industry Life Sciences, said: "Congratulations to Dr Poonam Sharma and the team at Peterborough City Hospital. The Gardenia Trial offers hope for better disease control for patients whose daily lives are profoundly impacted by Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Achieving this European first in a late-phase clinical trial is a testament to the clinical excellence within the NHS and the vital support provided by the NIHR.

“These milestones perfectly illustrate our national ambition to accelerate clinical trials and ensure the UK remains a premier, globally competitive destination for life sciences and commercial research." Dr Koufali added.