Objective: To explore whether gancyclovir (GCV) can inhibit the proliferation and induce the erythro-differ-entiation of the K562 human myeloid leukemia cell line. Methods: 562 cells were cultured with GCV for 4 days to detect cellular changes cloning efficiency, benzidine-positive rate, flow eytometry analysis, and telomerase activity. Results: When 562 cells grew in the medium containing GCV, the cellular growth and division were gradually suppressed,growth fracture decreased and further differentiation towards the cell producing hemoglobins was found. Conclusion: GCVcan inhibit proliferation and induce erythro-differentiation of K562 cells.