The effect of oxygen free radicals produced by the Fenton reaction was used to induce oxidation and other structural changes in pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin (PMSG). Modifications in the spectrophotometric scan, an increase in exposed carbonyl groups, and the ability to reduce nitroblue tetrazolium, was achieved by the oxidized hormone when compared to the control PMSG. PMSG loses its biological activity when coming in contact with the free-radical generating system. This lack of activity is manifested as a loss of ovulation and a decrease in the weight of the ovaries and uterus. It was demonstrated that oxygen free radicals can induce structural and biological changes in the gonadotrophin.