The present application relates generally to a method and a composition matter that provides a rapid and potent antimicrobial photodynamic inactivation (aPDI) of pathogenic bacteria that express high-affinity cell-surface hemin receptors (CSHRs) using Ga(III)-protoporphyrins IX (GaPpIX or Ga-PpIX). The invention provides an effective treatment option for infections of skin or body cavities that are accessible to visible-light irradiation, such as a handheld LED array emitting visible light (405 nm), especially for infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), pathogenic staphylococci, Streptococcus mutans, S. pneumoniae, S. pyogenes, streptococci, corynebacteria, mycobacteria, and Bacillus anthracis. 展开▼
