Abstract The chalcone-like series 1a–1g was efficiently synthesized from Morita–Baylis– Hillman reaction (52–74% yields). Compounds 1a–1g were designed by molecular hybridization based on the anti-inflammatory drug methyl salicylate (3) and the antileishmanial moiety of the Morita–Baylis–Hillman adducts 2a–2g. The 1a–1g compounds were much more actives than precursor series 2a–2g, for example, IC 50= 7.65 μM on ...