Born on March 4, 1907, Maria Branyas Morera lived to become one of the oldest people in the world and, in 2023, the oldest living person. She passed away in August 2024 at the age of 117 years and 168 days, a remarkable lifespan that has prompted scientists and researchers to investigate the factors behind her longevity. Was it due to rare genetic factors, her lifestyle, or a combination of both? A detailed study by Spanish researchers utilizing advanced biological technologies may now provide answers. Understanding the secrets to exceptional longevity could have implications for public health and strategies to improve healthy aging.
A Unique Study of a Supercentenarian
The study of Maria Branyas Morera focused on a multiomic analysis of her body. This approach involves examining multiple biological aspects simultaneously, including the genome, transcriptome, metabolome, microbiome, and epigenome.
Specifically, the genome represents the complete set of an individual’s genetic material – all of their DNA. This includes genes that carry instructions for making proteins and regulating bodily functions.
The transcriptome, refers to the entire collection of RNA produced by a genome at a given time. RNA serves as a temporary copy of genes used to create proteins within the body. Analyzing the transcriptome helps researchers understand how genes are activated or deactivated in cells, which can impact health, and aging.
The metabolome encompasses all the little molecules (or metabolites) produced during chemical reactions within the body’s cells. These metabolites play a crucial role in energy production, regulating cell growth, and other vital functions. Studying the metabolome provides insight into how metabolism functions and how it changes with age.
The microbiome consists of billions of microorganisms – such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi – that live in and on our bodies, particularly in our gut. These microorganisms play an crucial role in digestion, the immune system, and even mood and mental health.
Finally, the epigenome refers to chemical modifications to DNA and the proteins surrounding it that influence gene expression – that is, whether genes are turned on or off – without changing the DNA sequence itself. These modifications can be influenced by the environment, lifestyle, and diet, and they play a key role in aging and the prevention of certain diseases.
A “Young” Biology Despite Advanced Age
At 116 years old, well beyond the average life expectancy, researchers collected biological samples from her tissues for comparison with those of much younger individuals, some as young as 25. The results of this analysis were surprising. When comparing Branyas Morera’s cells to those of the younger subjects, researchers found that many biological markers associated with age were remarkably young for a woman of 116.
For example, telomeres – structures located at the ends of chromosomes – typically shorten with age, but in Branyas Morera’s case, her telomeres were among the longest ever observed, even compared to those of individuals in their thirties. This observation suggests that, biologically, she was aging much slower than most people.
Researchers similarly identified rare genetic variants in her that are known to protect against some of the most common age-related diseases, such as cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, and neurodegeneration. These findings indicate that, genetically, she had a considerable advantage that contributed to her longevity.
The Importance of Genetics in Longevity
Beyond her exceptional biological markers, scientists identified several unique genetic variants in Maria Branyas Morera. These mutations were present in her but not in other study participants, suggesting they played a key role in her longevity. These variants are linked to important biological mechanisms such as stem cell regulation and protection against chronic diseases.
The study also highlighted the importance of epigenetics in longevity. Using epigenetic clocks, researchers calculated the woman’s biological age based on DNA methylation. These clocks revealed that her biological age was much younger than her chronological age. This discovery reinforces the idea that longevity doesn’t depend solely on genes, but also on how those genes are expressed over time.
The Role of a Healthy Lifestyle
Biology alone doesn’t fully explain Branyas Morera’s exceptional longevity. The study also revealed that her active and healthy lifestyle played a significant role. Living in Catalonia, a Mediterranean region, she followed a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, olive oil, and fermented dairy products, particularly yogurt. This type of diet – typical of the Mediterranean diet – is well-known for its benefits for cardiovascular and digestive health.
Researchers also observed that Branyas Morera maintained an exceptional gut microbiome. A healthy microbiome is often linked to slower aging and a better immune response. Her diet, combined with healthy habits, allowed her to maintain impressive physical and mental health, even at an advanced age.
In addition to her diet, the centenarian had an active social life, another key factor for a long and healthy life. She was surrounded by family and friends and enjoyed spending time gardening, playing the piano, and reading. These activities, which stimulate both the mind and body, are associated with better mental health and a reduced risk of dementia.
Maria Branyas Morera demonstrated that This proves possible to defy the laws of biology, but also that the key lies in a combination of rare elements and a lifestyle that respects both the body and the mind. Scientists continue their research to better understand these mechanisms, and perhaps one day One can all benefit from the secrets of those who, like her, live beyond 100 years.
