Mitochondrial magnetism

Electron flow along the inner mitochondrial membrane produces an endogenous magnetic field. Molecular oxygen is paramagnetic, so this field attracts oxygen toward the respiratory chain, where it accepts electrons and protons at complex IV and is reduced to water.

Cold strengthens this system by shrinking mitochondria, bringing respiratory complexes closer, and increasing electron flow. During sleep, melatonin lowers body temperature and supports UCP-mediated uncoupling; fatty acids released from subcutaneous fat supply hydrogen for electron flow, heat, and metabolic water.