Disclosed herein are flavonoid compounds of formula (I) with variables as defined herein, compositions containing these compounds, methods for their synthesis, and uses of these compounds. In particular, there is provided methods of preventing and or mitigating the damage caused by cell apoptosis or cell necrosis by administration of the flavonoid compounds. Also provided are methods for inhibiting pro-apoptotic signalling kinase activity (such as JNK and p38a) in a subject while regulating and activating extracelluar signal regulated kinase (ERK). Also disclosed are methods of treating a diseases associated with the presence of reactive oxidative species (ROS), particularly wherein the subject is suffering ischemia or repefusion injury, by administration of the flavonoid compounds.
