Onion, broccoli compounds point way to health-giving superfoods
Researchers at the University of Warwick found that a protein, Nrf2, continually moves in and out of the nuclei of human cells to sense the cell's health and vitality.
When Nrf2 is exposed to threats to the cell's health, it oscillates faster and causes an increase in the cell's defence mechanism, including raising antioxidant levels.
The speed of Nrf2's movement increased when exposed to sulforaphane, derived from broccoli, and quercetin, found in high-levels in onions.
The researchers are now trialling new food supplements based on the two compounds, to assess their ability to lower the risk of diabetes and heart disease.
Lead researcher Professor Paul Thornalley said: "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."
Coordinator of the EU-funded BIOCLAIMS research programme Professor Andreu Palou said: "A main nutritional challenge in Europe is to substantiate the beneficial effects of foods that are advertised to the consumers. The approach of the group of Prof Thornalley is opening a fascinating new window."
The results published in the journal Antioxidants & Redox Signaling.
Source: hortweek.com
