Aya Iizuka

This study identifies Mnh1 as a key cation/proton antiporter promoting S. aureus phagocytic uptake and intracellular survival in human monocytes, suggesting it as a therapeutic target.

This study shows S. aureus persists in musculoskeletal tissues despite antibiotic therapy, with residual bacteria capable of causing relapse.

The paper develops a ratiometric fluorescent pH sensor for Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, validated in E. coli, S. epidermidis, and MRSA, enabling real-time pH tracking and identification of pH-sensitive phenotypes.

The paper maps Staphylococcus aureus microgeography in human tissue using AI-guided imaging and finds antibiotic failure is linked to intracellular bacterial persistence and metabolic constraints.