Free radicals and related activated electronic species are produced in biological systems in antimicrobial defense, through the action of the mixed function monooxygenases, by various oxidative enzymes such as xanthine oxidase, and by autooxidations mediated by such agents as heavy metals or quinones. While the evidence is circumstantial, excessive unconfined or inappropriate production of radical species in inflammation, the metabolism of exogenous chemicals, or through autooxidation probably plays a significant role in human disease.