Antithrombotic and Anti-Inflammatory Health Promoting Pharmacological Properties of Chalcones and Their Derivatives Against Atherosclerosis and CVD

Chalcones, a class of flavonoid compounds, are recognized for their unique biological properties, and especially for their antithrombotic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant health-promoting properties against inflammation-related disorders. Chalcones are phytochemicals naturally found in plants, fruits, and vegetables, such as tomatoes, apples, and licorice. Their characteristic chemical structure, which includes two aromatic rings and an α,β-unsaturated carbonyl group, makes them particularly versatile for pharmaceutical use. At the same time, chalcones exhibit strong antioxidant activity by neutralizing free radicals and enhancing endogenous antioxidant defense systems, such as glutathione. Structural modifications have improved their biological activity, leading to important applications in the treatment of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and inflammatory disorders. In addition, they have been successfully used in agriculture as natural pesticides and in the food industry as antioxidant additives. This review demonstrates the interdisciplinary importance of chalcones, highlighting the need for further research into their molecular mechanisms of action. A deeper understanding of their properties may open new avenues for the development of innovative drugs and environmentally friendly applications. In this way, chalcones can be a decisive factor in improving human health and environmental sustainability.