Characterization of a Nuclease Produced by Staphylococcus aureus

Abstract The conformational parameters of a nuclease produced by growing cultures of Staphylococcus aureus have been determined. This nuclease exhibits both ribonuclease and deoxyribonuclease activities. It has been shown to have a pH optimum of 9.2 and an absolute requirement for calcium ions. The experimental data are compatible with a compact globular protein of mol wt 17,000 and with a helical content of approximately 45%.