AP39 is a triphenylphosphonium derivatised anethole dithiolethione and mitochondria-targeting hydrogen sulfide (H2S) donor. AP39 increases intracellular H2S levels. AP39 exerts cytoprotective effects and maintains mitochondrial DNA integrity under oxidative stress conditions. AP39 protects against myocardial reperfusion injury in mice model and has the potential for Alzheimer's disease research.