The Spinal Injury Project (SIP) at Griffith University is conducting a world-first Phase I human clinical trial to test a cell transplantation therapy for repairing acquired spinal cord injury. The therapy uses olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) extracted from nasal biopsies. These cells have multiple mechanisms for stimulating neural repair including removal of cell debris, secretion of growth factors, and ensheathment and maintenance of nerve cells. The safety and efficacy of OEC transplantation has been previously tested by other research groups, but the results have been inconsistent and transplantation of the cells has been difficult. To overcome these previous limitations, the research team has invented an innovative technology in which the OECs are formulated into three-dimensional (3D) nerve bridges. The 3D nerve bridges allow the cells to form stable connections with each other and are easily handled by surgeons to facilitate implantation into the injury site. The efficacy of the nerve bridges has been extensively tested using a combination of in vitro cell studies and in vivo animal (mouse) models of spinal cord injury to assess motor, sensory and autonomic recovery. Patients will undergo 3 months of intense rehabilitation prior to surgery and for 8 months after surgery. Outcomes measured include neurological assessment, electrophysiological testing (motor, sensory, and autonomic function), radiological changes (MRI, functional MRI, Diffusion Tensor Imaging) and psychosocial measures. Recruitment has already commenced for adult patients (>18 years of age) with a C5 or lower level of injury with complete/near complete loss of function within the south-east Queensland region. This trial is significant because nasal-derived OECs will be used (rather than olfactory bulb), nerve bridges containing OECs will be placed around the injured spinal cord (rather than injected into the spinal cord), and will combine cell transplantation with rehabilitation.