Scientists studying the DNA and lifestyle of Maria Branyas Morera, who lived to be 117, believe they may have uncovered key factors in longevity.
Maria, who held the title of the world’s oldest person until her passing in August 2024, had a remarkably healthy microbiome and a “privileged genome,” according to researchers at Barcelona University.
The Secrets Behind Maria’s Longevity
Genetics professor Manel Esteller found that Maria’s unique genes made her biological age about 17 years younger than her actual age.
Her daughter, Rosa Moret, noted that Maria was rarely ever ill, which likely contributed to her long life. Although she began experiencing declines in eyesight, memory, and hearing towards the end, she maintained exceptional cholesterol levels, blood sugar regulation, and a well-balanced immune system.
Her diet played a crucial role—she followed a Mediterranean diet, ate three yogurts daily, avoided alcohol and smoking, and prioritized staying active by walking regularly. Most importantly, she surrounded herself with loved ones, a factor researchers believe contributed significantly to her well-being.
The findings challenge the common belief that aging must be linked to illness. Researchers hope to use insights from Maria’s lifestyle and genetics to develop anti-aging medicines and explore dietary recommendations for longevity.
Maria was born in San Francisco in 1907 to Spanish and Mexican parents, but her family returned to Spain in 1915 during World War I. Following her passing, the title of the world’s oldest person now belongs to Inah Canabarro Lucas, a Brazilian nun born in 1908.
Why Women May Live Longer Than Men
Meanwhile, a team of scientists at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) may have found a genetic reason why women tend to outlive men. Their research suggests that the X chromosome—of which women have two—plays a crucial role in brain aging.
Traditionally, scientists believed that only one X chromosome in women was active, while the other remained dormant. However, studies on lab mice suggest that this “silent” X chromosome actually reawakens later in life, potentially providing cognitive benefits.
Dr. Dena Dubal, senior author of the study, explained: “In typical aging, women have a brain that looks younger, with fewer cognitive deficits compared to men. These results show that the silent X in females actually reawakens late in life, probably helping to slow cognitive decline.”
Scientists found that around 20 genes from the silent X became active in older female mice, including one called PLP1, which supports myelin production—essential for brain cell communication. When researchers boosted PLP1 in both male and female mice, they saw improvements in memory and learning abilities.
This discovery could explain why women’s brains show more resilience against aging. Lead researcher Margaret Gadek noted: “We immediately thought this might explain how women’s brains remain resilient in typical aging because men wouldn’t have this extra X.”
Dr. Dubal further emphasized the significance of these findings, suggesting that studying the X chromosome could lead to new treatments to slow cognitive decline for both men and women.
Looking Ahead
With groundbreaking insights into longevity and brain health, scientists are hopeful that genetic and lifestyle factors could one day be used to extend lifespan and improve cognitive function in old age. Could this research pave the way for future interventions that slow the effects of aging?