Before her death at the age of 117, Maria Branyas Morera allowed for the study of her DNA. Surprising discoveries could shed light on the secrets of longevity.
How do some people manage to live for over a century while maintaining such astonishing vitality? This question fascinates researchers and the general public alike. Before passing away at the age of 117, Maria Branyas Morera wished to leave one last gift to science: allowing for the in-depth study of her DNA. The initial results have surprised specialists and could offer new avenues for better understanding the mechanisms of aging.
An exceptional life that spanned more than a century
Born on March 4, 1907 in San Francisco, Maria Branyas Morera lived through some of the greatest upheavals in modern history. During her 117 years of life, she witnessed two world wars, the dramatic evolution of transportation, the arrival of the internet, and technological advancements that transformed the daily lives of several generations.
Having settled in Catalonia with her family from childhood, she spent most of her life in Spain. Until her final days, she remained an admired figure, known for her lucidity and optimism. When Maria passed away in August 2024, she held the title of the oldest living person in the world.
But what is most intriguing today is not just her remarkable age. It is the biological clues she left behind.
Why scientists studied his DNA
Before her death, Maria Branyas Morera requested that her genetic makeup be analyzed. Her wish was simple: to help researchers understand the factors that can promote a long and healthy life.
Specialists from the University of Barcelona and the Josep Carreras Research Institute then undertook extensive analysis. Their goal was to determine why this supercentenarian seemed to have escaped many of the effects usually associated with aging.
The results quickly attracted the attention of the scientific community. According to the researchers, several of Maria's biological markers were more consistent with those of a significantly younger person.
A surprisingly well-preserved biology
One of the most surprising findings concerns what specialists call biological age. Despite being 117 years old, some indicators suggested that she exhibited the characteristics of a person between 10 and 15 years younger.
The analyses also revealed particularly favorable blood lipid levels, with a balance rarely seen at such an advanced age.
Researchers also studied her telomeres, the structures located at the ends of chromosomes. Their role in aging is still the subject of much scientific research. In Maria's case, certain observed characteristics could contribute to a better understanding of why some people retain their physical and cognitive abilities longer.
For scientists, his case shows above all that a very advanced age is not systematically synonymous with a significant loss of vitality.
Yogurt, one ally among others
One of Maria's lifestyle habits particularly caught our attention: her regular consumption of yogurts rich in live cultures. She especially liked a Spanish brand known for its probiotics.
Researchers believe this food may have contributed to the balance of his gut microbiota, often considered an important element of overall well-being.
However, experts point out that no single food can explain such longevity. In Maria's case, several factors appear to have acted in combination.
She engaged in regular physical activity, did not smoke, avoided alcohol, and maintained a rich social life. Every morning, she also started her day with a multi-cereal preparation.
The advice she shared on how to age well
Over the years, Maria Branyas Morera had developed her own vision of well-being. According to her, the quality of human relationships occupied an essential place.
She attributed her longevity to order, calm, contact with nature, emotional stability, and a positive attitude towards life's events.
His story is a reminder that a long life often depends on a subtle balance between natural predispositions, daily habits, and state of mind.
Through her incredible journey, Maria Branyas Morera continues to inspire those who dream of preserving their healthy aging and energy over the years.
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