Does ganciclovir require thymidine kinase?
The herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase (HSV-TK) converts ganciclovir (GCV) into a toxic product and allows selective elimination of TK+ cells in vitro and in vivo. It is currently being used in clinical gene therapy trials as a therapeutic gene or as a safety marker.
What enzyme activates ganciclovir?
Herpes simplex virus type 1 thymidine kinase (HSV-TK) activates ganciclovir which was found to be 3 orders of magnitude more efficient than any human kinase.
What does thymidine kinase do?
Thymidine kinase (TK) activity is measured by radioenzymatic assay. TK is an enzyme that catalyses the phosphorylation of deoxythymidine to deoxythymidine monophosphate. Its activity is highest in G1-S translation checkpoint and then declines rapidly in the G2 phase of the cell cycle.
How does ganciclovir work?
Ganciclovir works by slowing the growth of the CMV virus. It helps control CMV retinitis and decrease the risk of blindness. It also helps prevent the spread of infection to other areas of the body.
How do you handle ganciclovir?
For 48 hours after this drug is given, the patient’s body fluids can contain the drug. During that 48-hour period, caregivers should follow safety guidelines when handling the patient’s vomit, blood, urine, and bowel movements, including diapers. These guidelines include wearing gloves when cleaning up body fluids.
How is ganciclovir activated?
Mechanism of action. Ganciclovir is a synthetic analogue of 2′-deoxy-guanosine. It is first phosphorylated to ganciclovir monophosphate by a viral kinase encoded by the cytomegalovirus (CMV) gene UL97 during infection.
Is ganciclovir chemotherapy?
Conclusions: Ganciclovir is the only antiviral chemotherapy which reduces the risk of CMV infection or disease after most types of major transplantation.
Is ganciclovir safe?
Ganciclovir (also called Cytovene®) is a medicine used to prevent or treat infections caused by cytomegalovirus (also called CMV). It is available as a clear liquid given into a vein (IV). Ganciclovir can pose a health hazard to caregivers. All caregivers should take safety precautions while giving this drug.