Akwasi Amoako

Associate Professor Akwasi Amoako is a Conjoint Associate Professor at the Royal Brisbane Clinical Unit within the Faculty of Health, Medicine and Behavioural Sciences at the University of Queensland. His research spans reproductive medicine, obstetrics, and gynaecology with particular expertise in endometriosis, the endocannabinoid system, and pregnancy outcomes.

Professor Amoako's research interests focus on understanding the molecular mechanisms of reproductive disorders, particularly endometriosis and its relationship with the endocannabinoid system. His work examines how endocannabinoid regulation varies across the menstrual cycle and in endometriosis, with implications for novel therapeutic approaches. He also investigates clinical obstetric topics including preterm birth risk factors, cesarean section techniques and outcomes, antibiotic prophylaxis, and the impact of maternal obesity on pregnancy outcomes. His research spans basic science investigations of molecular pathways through to large clinical cohort studies and randomized controlled trials.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on endometriosis research using advanced techniques like spatial transcriptomics and organoid models. His work demonstrates how genetic susceptibility influences endometrial function in endometriosis and how hormonal treatments affect lesion gene expression. In obstetrics, he has conducted significant research on cesarean delivery techniques, particularly examining safety differences between classical and low transverse incisions in preterm births, and investigating antibiotic prophylaxis protocols. His publications span high-impact journals in reproductive medicine, obstetrics, and molecular biology.

Professor Amoako actively supervises PhD students, serving as Principal Advisor for research on endocannabinoid system regulation in endometriosis and as Associate Advisor for projects utilizing spatial transcriptomics to personalize endometriosis treatment. His collaborative approach is evident through numerous co-authorships with researchers including Dr. Brett McKinnon, Dr. Keisuke Tanaka, and Professor Grant Montgomery across multiple institutions.