Gluconolactonase with low activity towards other sugar lactones, including gulonolactone and galactonolactone. Catalyzes a key step in ascorbic acid (vitamin C) biosynthesis. Can also hydrolyze diisopropyl phosphorofluoridate and phenylacetate (in vitro). Calcium-binding protein. Modulates Ca(2+) signaling, and Ca(2+)-dependent cellular processes and enzyme activities.