Andrew Sharkey

Andrew Sharkey is a Fellow at the University of Cambridge, affiliated with the School of Biological Sciences. His research focuses on pregnancy initiation, placental development, and the immunology of pregnancy, with particular emphasis on natural killer cells and the regulation of immune responses. His work explores the interaction between the maternal immune system and the placenta, as well as the causes of pre-eclampsia. Sharkey's research also includes the development of novel approaches to contraception and the diagnosis and treatment of infertility. His techniques involve primary cell isolation and culture, flow cytometry, and RNA sequencing.

Andrew Sharkey's research focuses on reproduction, immunology, and the roles of the placenta and embryo in human development. His work explores the molecular mechanisms underlying reproductive processes, including the regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the endometrium and placenta, its interaction with ovarian steroids, and its implications in conditions such as endometriosis and ovarian carcinoma. Sharkey also investigates the expression of cytokines and their receptors in preimplantation embryos and the role of maternal immune factors, such as KIRs and HLA-C, in reproductive success. His studies highlight the interplay between immunological and hormonal signals in reproductive failure and successful placentation.