Neurological conditions

Major challenge

Spinal cord injuries cause lifelong disability, and regeneration was once thought impossible.

Our research approach

We are transplanting nasal cells into injured spinal cords to form bridges that help nerve cells reconnect. This innovative therapy, which builds on the pioneering work of the late Professor Emeritus Alan Mackay-Sim, is being refined to improve cell purity and longevity.

Once considered a dream, spinal cord regeneration is now becoming a reality. Our researchers are advancing treatments that aim to restore movement and function by reconnecting damaged nerve pathways.

What this means for patients and the future of neurological care

This research offers new hope for people with spinal injuries—potentially helping them regain independence and dramatically improving quality of life. A world-first Phase 1 clinical trial of this exciting technology will begin in Q4, 2025.

Key staff

This work is led by Professor James St John at the Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research, continuing the legacy of Professor Emeritus Alan Mackay-Sim.

Partners

Perry Cross Spinal Research Foundation, Clem Jones Group, Queensland Government, Griffith Enterprise.

Major challenge

Axons are the nerve fibres that carry signals between cells—enabling movement, memory, language and more. When damaged, axons can self-destruct, contributing to conditions like Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), traumatic brain injury and glaucoma.

Our research approach

We’re investigating the enzyme SARM1, which triggers axon loss. Using structural biology methods like cryo-EM and X-ray crystallography, we’re characterising SARM1 and related bacterial enzymes to understand how they’re regulated and how they can be inhibited. By understanding how SARM1 works—and how to stop it—we’re laying the groundwork for therapies that protect nerve cells and slow disease progression.

What this means for patients and the future of neurological care

This research could lead to new therapies that protect nerve cells and slow disease progression, offering hope for people with neurodegenerative conditions.

Key staff

Associate Professor Thomas Ve.

Partners

Translation of this research is supported by Disarm Therapeutics, a subsidiary of Eli Lilly and Company with a mission create breakthrough disease-modifying therapeutics to treat patients affected by axonal degeneration.

Major challenge

PTSD, chronic pain and blast injuries cause subtle brain changes that are hard to detect using current diagnostic tools.

Our research approach

We’re using advanced magnetic resonance (MR) technology to identify specific sugar molecules—Fuc-α(1−2) glycans—linked to learning, memory and neuronal development. These glycans respond differently to trauma, offering a new pathway to understand how pain and PTSD affect the brain.

This approach is already being applied in real-world settings. Under the leadership of Professor Carolyn Mountford, our team is working with the USA and Australian military to develop MR -based diagnostics that improve brain health outcomes for affected soldiers.

What this means for patients and the future of neurological care

By detecting trauma-related brain changes earlier, this research could help clinicians tailor treatments more precisely—enhancing care for people living with pain and PTSD.

Key staff

Professor Carolyn Mountford.

Partners

This research is being conducted in collaboration with the USA and Australian military to improve neurological health in service personnel.

Major challenge

Parkinson’s disease is complex and deeply personal, and no two cases are the same. Parkinson’s progresses for years before diagnosis and current treatments only manage symptoms.

Our research approach

We’re screening natural compounds, analysing genetic mutations and developing biomarker tests to detect Parkinson’s earlier and track its progression. Biological samples from patients and healthy volunteers are helping us understand the molecular and cellular causes of the disease.

What this means for patients and the future of neurological care

Earlier diagnosis, better tracking and more targeted treatments could transform the lives of people living with Parkinson’s disease and bring us closer to disease modification and a cure.

Key staff

Professor George Mellick.