Definition:

Mediates the electrogenic exchange of Ca(2+) against Na(+) ions across the cell membrane, and thereby contributes to the regulation of cytoplasmic Ca(2+) levels and Ca(2+)-dependent cellular processes. Contributes to cellular Ca(2+) homeostasis in excitable cells, both in muscle and in brain. In a first phase, voltage-gated channels mediate the rapid increase of cytoplasmic Ca(2+) levels due to release of Ca(2+) stores from the endoplasmic reticulum. SLC8A3 mediates the export of Ca(2+) from the cell during the next phase, so that cytoplasmic Ca(2+) levels rapidly return to baseline. Contributes to Ca(2+) transport during excitation-contraction coupling in muscle. In neurons, contributes to the rapid decrease of cytoplasmic Ca(2+) levels back to baseline after neuronal activation, and thereby contributes to modulate synaptic plasticity, learning and memory (By similarity). Required for normal oligodendrocyte differentiation and for normal myelination. Mediates Ca(2+) efflux from mitochondria and contributes to mitochondrial Ca(2+) ion homeostasis (By similarity).