GROWTH CONTROL OF ORAL AND SUPERFICIAL ORGANISMS USING GALLIUM COMPOUNDS

摘要

The present invention provides methods for treating or preventing diseases and disorders caused by iron-dependent pathogenic microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and parasites, by applying a gallium compound to an affected area. In particular, the present invention provides methods for treating or preventing dental caries, vaginal infections, skin infections, and so forth. Gallium compounds can be formulated as toothpaste, mouthwash, cream, ointment, gel, solution, eye drops, suppository, and the like. Furthermore, the invention provides methods for controlling microbial growth on environmental surfaces, including those of toothbrush, denture, dental retainer, contact lens, catheter, food stuff, and so forth. In addition, the present invention provides animal feeds which contain gallium compounds that promote the animal growth and prevent the animals from infections as well as protect consumers from post processing infections.

主权项

1. A method for controlling the growth of a microorganism on an area of a subject selected from the group consisting of a skin surface, eye surface, or vaginal surface, the method comprising:
applying a therapeutically effective amount of a gallium compound to the area of the subject, thereby controlling the growth of the microorganism.