The premise of this review is that many of the biological effects of Pb are reflection of tissue peroxidation. 2. Enhanced tissue levels of arachidonic acid in Pb toxicosis appear to be involved in the peroxidative changes. 3. The altered arachidonate metabolism may be related to changes in membrane structure and function. 4. The induction of enhanced glutathione levels in animal tissues by Pb may afford protection from peroxidative damage.