Ganciclovir interferes with which enzyme in the treatment of cytomegalovirus infection?

Ganciclovir is an antiviral medication primarily used to treat infections caused by the cytomegalovirus (CMV). It is a nucleoside analogue that acts by specifically inhibiting the DNA polymerase enzyme, which is crucial for viral replication.

Once ganciclovir is phosphorylated within the cell, it mimics the natural nucleosides that are substrates for DNA polymerase. The drug is then incorporated into viral DNA during replication, leading to termination of the growing DNA chain and ultimately inhibiting the new virus's ability to propagate. This mechanism is key to its effectiveness in managing CMV infections, particularly in immunocompromised patients.

In summary, ganciclovir's interference with DNA polymerase is essential for disrupting the replication process of CMV, making it a critical drug in the treatment of this viral infection.