Maria Branyas Morera died last year at the age of 117. Research into her life has shown that it is possible to reach that age while maintaining brain function and reducing the risk of age-related diseases.
Spanish doctors conducted a detailed study of Branyas. The research included an analysis of her genetics, protein levels, metabolic products, and the diversity of her gut microbiome.
The studies showed that her telomeres, the protective "caps" at the ends of her cells, were too short, a sign typically associated with aging. But they also protected her from cancer. Genes were found in her DNA that protected the heart and brain. Her long life was also due to her lifestyle: she did not drink alcohol, did not smoke, and had an active life with friends and family.
Scientists say that this research could help develop new therapies that enable people to age healthily and maintain a high quality of life. "We can develop drugs that mimic the effects of good genes," said Dr. Manel Esteller.
