Chronic inhibition of magnesium transport leads to increased intracellular magnesium concentration and a long circadian period. Researchers found that inhibiting magnesium transport over long periods causes higher than normal magnesium levels inside cells and disrupts the body's 24-hour circadian rhythm, causing it to have a longer than normal period. This suggests that proper magnesium transport and levels are important for maintaining the circadian clock's normal 24-hour cycle.