Dr Brent McMonagle and a World-First Spinal Cord Injury Trial

A world-first human clinical trial aimed at treating chronic spinal cord injury is now underway on the Gold Coast. At its centre is an idea that has been developing for decades: that specialised cells from inside the nose may help repair damaged nerves in the spinal cord.

For Dr Brent McMonagle, this trial is not simply a clinical milestone. It is deeply connected to his academic and surgical work over many years.

Dr McMonagle completed his PhD studying olfactory ensheathing cells, the unique support cells involved in our sense of smell. Unlike most cells in the body, these cells exist in an environment where nerves are constantly regenerating. That biological property has long intrigued neuroscientists.

Could they help repair nerves elsewhere in the body?

The current trial, led by Professor James St John at Griffith University, builds on more than thirty years of research pioneered by the late Alan Mackay-Sim and continued by a dedicated translational team.

Dr McMonagle plays a critical clinical role.

The process begins in the nose. Using precise endoscopic techniques, Brent carefully removes a small sample of olfactory tissue. From this tissue, researchers isolate olfactory ensheathing cells, which are then cultured and used to create what is known as a nerve bridge. This delicate structure is later implanted into the injured spinal cord to provide a pathway that may encourage nerve regeneration.

While much of the scientific focus sits on what happens in the laboratory and in the spine, the procedure starts with meticulous, safe tissue collection. Brent’s dual expertise in ENT surgery and olfactory cell research uniquely positions him to contribute at this foundational stage.

Importantly, the progress to this point has not happened in isolation.

For many years, his patients have generously agreed to contribute nasal cells for research. These individuals understood that breakthroughs require participation long before clinical trials begin. Their willingness to contribute tissue, knowing it may not directly benefit them, helped move the science from theory to evidence.

The trial is being conducted at Gold Coast University Hospital, marking an important step in bringing advanced regenerative research into Queensland’s public health system.

As a Phase 1 study, the primary focus is safety. However, researchers will also measure changes in function that matter deeply to people living with spinal cord injury. Even small improvements in movement, bladder or bowel control, or independence can significantly affect quality of life.

For Dr McMonagle, the significance of this work lies in that human impact.

Spinal cord injury has long been considered irreversible. This trial does not promise a cure. It represents careful, evidence-based progress built on decades of research, patient generosity and clinical precision.