Washington, Sep 12 (IANS): Research into a protein that helps keep cells in our bodies healthy can pave the way for new superfoods that tackle heart disease and diabetes.

The protein called Nrf2 activates the cell's defence mechanism including raising the levels of antioxidant.

Researchers at University of Warwick successfully increased the speed of Nrf2's movement by artificially introducing health beneficial substances - potential components of new superfoods.

The beneficial substances comprise broccoli-derived sulforaphane and quercetin which are found in high-levels in onions.

“By understanding how this process works and increasing Nrf2's speed without putting cells under threat, new strategies for design of healthier foods and improved drugs can be devised,” said professor Paul Thornalley from University of Warwick.

The team used these insights to develop new food supplements which are currently under trial to decrease risk of developing diabetes and heart disease.

The study appeared in the journal Antioxidants and Redox Signalling.