This bacterial enzyme is involved, along with EC 1.1.1.52, 3alpha-hydroxycholanate dehydrogenase (NAD+), or EC 1.1.1.392, 3alpha-hydroxycholanate dehydrogenase (NADP+), in the modification of secondary bile acids to form 3beta-bile acids (also known as iso-bile acids). The enzyme catalyses the reaction in the reduction direction in vivo. Also acts on related 3-oxo bile acids. cf. EC 1.1.1.391, 3beta-hydroxycholanate 3-dehydrogenase (NAD+).