The protein encoded by AT2G40410 (CAN2) is a Ca2+-dependent and Zn2+-sensitive nuclease which preferentially degrades ssDNA and RNA at neutral pH. This protein possesses a unique hybrid structure in their catalytic domain consisting of staphylococcal nuclease-like and tRNA synthetase anticodon binding-like motifs. Microarray experiments show that CAN2 nuclease is constitutively expressed in plant tissues.