Born on March 4, 1907, Maria Branyas Morera made history by becoming one of the oldest women in the world and the oldest person in the world in 2023. She died in August 2024 at the age of 117 years and 168 days, an extraordinary longevity that has intrigued scientists and researchers: why did she live so long? Was it due to rare genetic factors, to her lifestyle, or to a combination of both? A thorough study conducted by Spanish researchers using advanced biological technologies might finally answer this question.
A Unique Study on a Supercentenarian
The study on Maria Branyas Morera focused on a multiomic analysis of her body. This term refers to the study of several biological aspects at once, including the genome, the transcriptome, metabolism, the microbiome, and the epigenome.
In detail, the genome represents the entirety of an individual’s genetic material, that is, all DNA. This includes the genes that carry instructions for building proteins and regulating the body’s functions.
The transcriptome, for its part, refers to the full set of RNAs produced by a genome at a given moment. These RNAs are temporary copies of the genes used to manufacture proteins in the body. Analyzing the transcriptome helps to understand how genes are activated or deactivated in cells, which can affect health and aging.
The metabolome refers to the entirety of the small molecules (or metabolites) produced during chemical reactions within the body’s cells. These metabolites play a crucial role in energy production, the regulation of cell growth, and other vital functions. Studying the metabolome helps to understand how metabolism works and how it changes with age.
The microbiome comprises billions of microorganisms (such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi) that live in and on our bodies, particularly in our gut. These microorganisms play a significant role in our digestion, our immune system, and even our mood and mental health.
Finally, the epigenome refers to the chemical modifications of DNA and the proteins around it that influence gene expression, that is, their activation or deactivation, 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 in the prevention of certain diseases.
A ‘Young’ Biology Despite Advanced Age
At 116, already far beyond the average life expectancy, researchers collected biological samples from her tissues to compare them with those of much younger people, some of whom were only 25 years old. The results of this analysis were striking. By comparing Branyas Morera’s cells with those of younger subjects, researchers found that many age-associated biological markers were remarkably young for a woman of 116.
Take telomeres, the structures located at the ends of chromosomes. They normally shorten with age, but in Branyas Morera’s case, her telomeres were among the longest ever observed, even when compared to those of individuals in their thirties. This observation suggests that biologically, she aged much more slowly than the majority of people.
Researchers also found 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 results indicate that genetically, she had a substantial 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 the other studied individuals, suggesting that 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 this woman’s biological age from DNA methylation. These clocks revealed that her biological age was far younger than her chronological age. This finding reinforces the idea that longevity does not depend solely on genes, but also on how they are expressed over time.
The Role of a Healthy Lifestyle
Biology alone does not fully explain Branyas Morera’s exceptional longevity. The study also revealed that her active and healthy lifestyle played a decisive role. Living in Catalonia, a Mediterranean region, she followed a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, olive oil, and fermented dairy products, notably yogurt. This type of diet typical of the Mediterranean diet is well known for its benefits to cardiovascular and digestive health.
Researchers also observed that Branyas Morera maintained an exceptional intestinal microbiome. A healthy microbiome is often linked to slower aging and a stronger immune response. Her diet, combined with healthy lifestyle habits, allowed her to maintain impressive physical and mental health, even at an advanced age.
Beyond her diet, the centenarian led an active social life, which is 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 mind and body, are associated with better mental health and a reduced risk of dementia.
Ultimately, Maria Branyas Morera demonstrated that it is 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 we all may benefit from the secrets of those who, like her, live beyond 100 years.
