Na+/H+ Exchanger

Function

The Na⁺, which enters the matrix in exchange of Ca²⁺ via the NCE, is extruded from the matrix in exchange of H⁺ via the NHE. The function of the NHE is to maintain a low [Na⁺] (2–5 mM) in respiring mitochondria to favor the influx of Na⁺ and efflux of Ca²⁺ via the NCE.

Dash, RK and Beard, DA.  Analysis of Cardiac Mitochondrial Na⁺/Ca²⁺ Exchanger Kinetics with a Biophysical Model of Mitochondrial Ca²⁺ Handing Suggests a 3:1 Stoichiometry. J Physiol, 2008.