Mitochondrial sodium/calcium antiporter that mediates sodium-dependent calcium efflux from mitochondrion, by mediating the exchange of 3 sodium ions per 1 calcium ion . Plays a central role in mitochondrial calcium homeostasis by mediating mitochondrial calcium extrusion: calcium efflux is essential for mitochondrial function and cell survival, notably in cardiomyocytes (By similarity). Regulates rates of glucose-dependent insulin secretion in pancreatic beta-cells during the first phase of insulin secretion: acts by mediating efflux of calcium from mitochondrion, thereby affecting cytoplasmic calcium responses . Required for store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) and Ca2+ release-activated Ca2+ (CRAC) channel regulation: sodium transport by SLC8B1 leads to promote calcium-shuttling that modulates mitochondrial redox status, thereby regulating SOCE activity . Involved in B-lymphocyte chemotaxis (By similarity). Able to transport Ca2+ in exchange of either Li+ or Na+, explaining how Li+ catalyzes Ca2+ exchange . In contrast to other members of the family its function is independent of K+ .