chalcones: multifunctional scaffolds bridging synthesis, structure–activity relationships, and therapeutic applications: a review

Chalcones, characterized by the α,β-unsaturated carbonyl scaffold that links two aromatic rings, have garnered extensive interest as versatile intermediates in organic synthesis and as promising pharmacophores in medicinal chemistry. their facile synthesis, structural modifiability, and broad spectrum of biological activities—including anticancer, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral effects—have made them valuable scaffolds for drug discovery. this review comprehensively summarizes recent advances in chalcone chemistry, highlighting synthetic methodologies with an emphasis on green approaches, key structural modifications, and their impact on biological efficacy. structure–activity relationship analyses and computational studies provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying chalcone bioactivities and guide the rational design of new derivatives. future perspectives focus on enhancing chalcone pharmacokinetics, employing advanced computational tools, and expanding in vivo studies to realize their therapeutic potential. this consolidation of current knowledge aims to assist researchers in harnessing chalcones for novel drug development.