Unlocking the secrets of longevity: Insights from a 117‑year-old
Scientists from the University of Barcelona studied the DNA of 117-year-old Maria Branyas Morera. Their findings reveal the secrets of her longevity.
What you need to know
- Maria Branyas Morera, born in San Francisco, was the oldest person in the world and passed away at the age of 117 in Spain.
- Studies of her DNA showed that her cells were biologically 17 years younger, and her microbiota resembled that of infants.
- Her lifestyle, including a Mediterranean diet and avoiding stimulants, supported her health and longevity.
Scientists from the University of Barcelona, while studying the DNA of Maria Branyas Morera, discovered that her cells were biologically 17 years younger.
Her microbiota (the totality of microorganisms such as bacteria, archaea, fungi, protozoa residing in the human body - editor's note) resembled those belonging to infants, the researchers emphasise.
This discovery sheds new light on understanding the ageing process and its connection to genetics.
What factors contributed to her longevity?
Maria Branyas Morera attributed her longevity not only to her genes but also to her lifestyle. A Mediterranean diet, including three yoghurts a day, and avoiding alcohol and cigarettes were key elements for her.
Additionally, regular walks and closeness to family supported her mental and physical health.
The Ara newspaper, covering the Catalonian region where she lived for most of her life, was the first to report on the results of the study described as Branyas' "privileged genome" in early March.
A team of researchers—as reported by "The Guardian"—also discovered that the woman maintained mental clarity almost until the very end of her life.
Scientists on ageing and “supercentenarians”
The work of scientists from Barcelona is thus far the most comprehensive study concerning so-called supercentenarians—people who are 110 years old or more—and also presents some possible explanations for longevity.
Researchers emphasise that the case of Maria Branyas Morera demonstrates that aging does not have to be associated with diseases.
The genetic studies conducted "challenge the perception that [the two] are inexorably linked," claim the scientists.
