Scientists Study the DNA of a 117-Year-Old Woman to Unlock the Secrets of Longevity

A Life That Spanned More Than a Century

Maria Branyas Morera lived a life that stretched across generations, witnessing profound global changes over more than a century.

Born on March 4, 1907, in the United States, she lived to the age of 117 before passing away in 2024.

Her lifetime included two world wars, the leadership of 21 U.S. presidents, and rapid technological advancements that reshaped daily life.

Although she was born in San Francisco, her family relocated to Spain in 1915, where she spent the remainder of her life in Catalonia.

Her journey was marked by both hardship and resilience, including the loss of her father during their move due to pulmonary tuberculosis.

A Final Request That Sparked Scientific Interest

Before her passing, Maria made a request that would extend her legacy beyond her lifetime.

She asked for her DNA to be studied in hopes of helping scientists understand the factors behind her exceptional longevity.

This request led to a detailed scientific investigation into her genetic and biological makeup.

Researchers aimed to uncover insights that could contribute to healthier aging in the future.

Her willingness to participate in such research added a meaningful dimension to her life story.

A Comprehensive Scientific Study

A team of Spanish scientists, including researchers from the University of Barcelona and the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, undertook the study.

They collected tissue samples and conducted an in-depth analysis of her cells and genetic profile.

The goal was to determine what made her an exception in the typical patterns of aging.

Dr. Manel Esteller, who led the research, explained the importance of distinguishing between aging and illness.

“The common rule is that as we age we become sicker but she was an exception and we wanted to understand why. For the first time, we’ve been able to separate being old from being sick.”

Genetic Advantages and Biological Youthfulness

The findings revealed that Maria’s biological condition appeared significantly younger than her actual age.

Scientists estimated that her body functioned as though it were 10 to 15 years younger.

She exhibited notably low levels of harmful cholesterol and triglycerides.

At the same time, her levels of beneficial cholesterol were unusually high.

These factors contributed to her overall health and longevity.

The Role of Lifestyle Habits

In addition to genetic factors, Maria’s daily habits played an important role in her long life.

She maintained an active lifestyle, engaging in regular physical activity.

She avoided smoking and alcohol, choices that supported her overall health.

Her social connections also remained strong, contributing to emotional well-being.

These habits created a balanced approach to both physical and mental health.

Diet and Daily Routine

Maria’s diet included elements that may have supported her longevity.

She regularly consumed probiotic yogurt, particularly a Spanish brand known for beneficial bacteria.

Her mornings often began with a smoothie containing a variety of cereals.

This combination provided nutritional support and may have contributed to her overall vitality.

Her consistent dietary habits reflected a simple yet structured approach to health.

Unique Cellular Characteristics

Researchers also examined her telomeres, which are protective structures at the ends of chromosomes.

Typically, shorter telomeres are associated with aging and increased health risks.

However, in Maria’s case, her telomeres displayed unique characteristics.

Scientists suggested that these features may have played a protective role, possibly limiting the growth of harmful cells.

This finding challenged common assumptions about the aging process.

A New Perspective on Aging and Health

The study provided insight into the relationship between age and overall health.

It suggested that advanced age does not necessarily equate to poor health.

Researchers emphasized that Maria’s case demonstrated the possibility of aging while maintaining well-being.

The findings offered a broader understanding of how genetic and lifestyle factors interact.

They also highlighted the complexity of the aging process.

The Balance Between Genetics and Lifestyle

Dr. Esteller summarized the findings by emphasizing the combined influence of inherited traits and personal habits.

“We can develop drugs to reproduce the effects of good genes. Maria’s parents gave her very good genes, but we cannot choose our parents.”

He further explained that longevity is shaped by both genetics and lifestyle choices.

“The clues for extreme longevity are a mix between what we inherited from our parents and what we do in our lives. This mix, the percentage depends, but it can be […] half and half.”

This perspective reinforces the importance of both nature and personal decisions.

A Life Marked by Resilience and Milestones

Maria became the world’s oldest verified living person following the death of Sister André on January 17, 2023.

She held this title until her passing on August 19, 2024, at 117 years and 168 days old.

Her life included remarkable events, including her recovery from COVID-19 in March 2020.

This recovery further demonstrated her resilience and strong health.

Her experiences reflected both personal strength and the broader challenges faced by her generation.

Her Reflections on Society and Aging

Maria spoke openly about the treatment of older individuals in society.

She highlighted the need for greater respect and care for the elderly.

“This pandemic has revealed that older people are the forgotten ones of our society. They fought their whole lives, sacrificed time and their dreams for today’s quality of life. They didn’t deserve to leave the world in this way.”

Her words emphasized the importance of valuing and supporting older generations.

They also reflected her awareness of broader social issues.

Family and Personal Life

Throughout her life, Maria maintained strong family connections.

She had three children, 11 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren.

With the support of her daughter, she remained active in sharing her thoughts and experiences.

Her presence within her family contributed to her sense of purpose and fulfillment.

These relationships played a central role in her daily life.

Her Personal Advice for Longevity

Maria attributed her long life to a combination of habits and mindset.

She emphasized the importance of maintaining order, calmness, and strong relationships.

“Order, tranquillity, good connection with family and friends, contact with nature, emotional stability, no worries, no regrets, lots of positivity, and staying away from toxic people.”

Her advice reflected a balanced approach to both emotional and physical well-being.

It highlighted the role of mindset in shaping overall health.

A Legacy That Extends Beyond Her Lifetime

Maria Branyas Morera’s life offers valuable insights into the potential for healthy aging.

Her story demonstrates that longevity can be influenced by both genetic factors and lifestyle choices.

The research inspired by her request may contribute to future advancements in understanding aging.

Her experiences continue to inform discussions about health, resilience, and quality of life.

Her legacy remains a powerful example of how individuals can shape the understanding of longevity for generations to come.