Abstract: Disclosed are compounds containing single amino acids, peptides, or derivatives thereof which are selectively delivered to the mitochondria of a cell. Compounds of the invention exhibit antioxidant activity thereby reducing reactive oxygen species in cells. These compounds are useful for inhibiting oxidative stress-induced cell injury or death both in vivo and ex vivo. In addition, methods for the synthesis of these compounds are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a S-nitrosated mitochondria-targeted thiol-based antioxidant prodrug and uses therefore for the prevention or treatment of diseases or conditions associated with mitochondrial dysfunction resulting from changes in the mitochondrial redox environment. When activated, prodrug of the present invention can specifically provide a NO• donor and a thiol-based antioxidant to mitochondria thereby decreasing the degree of mitochondrial dysfunction.