Study of 117-Year-Old Reveals Longevity Clues

Maria Branyas, who died in August 2024 at age 117, donated blood, saliva, urine and stool for study by Spanish researchers. Analyses published in Cell Reports Medicine found her epigenome and gut microbiome appeared much younger than expected, with low inflammation and a biological profile up to about 15 years younger than her chronological age. Researchers identified rare genetic variants that may protect heart, brain and immune health, while also finding age-associated markers — very short telomeres, an aged B cell population and clonal hematopoiesis — yet she remained free of major age-related diseases. Investigators said lifestyle factors likely contributed — a Mediterranean-style diet, daily probiotic yogurts, regular physical and social activity, good sleep, and no smoking or drinking — and noted she recovered from COVID-19 at 113. They caution that a single exceptional case limits general conclusions but say the findings point to biomarkers and possible strategies to promote healthy ageing.