The protein encoded by AT3G56170 (CAN or CAN1) is a Ca2+-dependent and Zn2+-sensitive, plasma membrane nuclease which degrades ssDNA, dsDNA and RNA at neutral pH. This protein possesses a hybrid structure of its catalytic domain consisting of staphylococcal nuclease-like and tRNA synthetase anticodon binding-like motifs. Expression of CAN1 nuclease correlates with different forms of plant programmed cell death.