In order to understand chromate reductase activity (CRA), related to cellular carcinogenecity and metal toxicity in ecological systems, we began studying the reduction of chromium(VI) salts using cysteine, ascorbic acid and several monosaccharides mainly through EPR and absorption spectroscopic methods. The present study indicates Cr(V) as a definite intermediate and also shows the relative trends of reducing capabilities among various reducing agents employed. Considerable progress has been achieved in the isolation of intermediates and final products as well. © 1990 Indian Academy of Sciences.