Description
Has DNA hydrolytic activity. Is capable of both single- and double-stranded DNA cleavage, producing DNA fragments with 3'-OH ends. Can cleave chromatin to nucleosomal units and cleaves nucleosomal and liposome-coated DNA. Acts in internucleosomal DNA fragmentation (INDF) during apoptosis and necrosis. The role in apoptosis includes myogenic and neuronal differentiation, and BCR-mediated clonal deletion of self-reactive B cells. Is active on chromatin in apoptotic cell-derived membrane-coated microparticles and thus suppresses anti-DNA autoimmunity