Reviewed Diettian Jessica Ball, MS, Rd
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The main points
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The new study deals with Maria Brany Morera (or M116), who has lived in 117.
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The M116 intestinal micntiomas resembles a person who decades younger.
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Her daily yogurt habit supported anti -inflammatory bowel health.
Life up to 117 and 168 days is not a small deed. In fact, it’s extraordinary. Maria Branyas Morera – or M116, as mentioned in an innovative study, was the oldest living man in the world before she died in 2024.
Born in 1907 In San Francisco, Spanish parents moved to Spain at the age of 8 and spent the rest of her life there. Her story is not just about her wonderful age; It is about what her body can teach us to live a longer, healthier life. Scientists conducted a comprehensive study of her biology and the conclusions have recently been published Cell reports;
How was this study done?
To understand what M116 did such a unique, researchers performed a “multomial” analysis, which is deeply immersed in its biology using the most advanced measures. They examined its DNA, protein, metabolism, intestinal microbiome and even its epigenetics (as its genes are regulated). The samples were taken from her blood, saliva, urine and stools, and the results were compared to the results of younger people and other supercellents (people over 110 years old).
One of the most important attention was directed to her telomeres, protective covers at the ends of the chromosomes, which are shortened with age. They also analyzed its immune system, mitochondrial function (cell power plants) and even its intestinal bacteria. This comprehensive approach allowed scientists to put a detailed image of what could have contributed to her extraordinary life expectancy.
What did the study find?
In general, the conclusions revealed that the M116 longevity was not related to one “magic” gene or factor. Instead, it was a combination of unique features throughout its biology, which were working together to promote long life. Here are some of the most important events.
Gut microbiome
Researchers found that the M116 intestinal bacteria are reminiscent of a much younger person. She had a high level BifidobacteriumThe authors of the study, a useful bacterium associated with reduced inflammation and better overall health. Interestingly, her diet, which is rich in yogurt, was able to play an important role in maintaining this youthful microbiome. Specifically, she ate three portions of yogurt every day in the last 20 years of her life. This is more than 21 portions per week and about 1,095 servings per year-it is a consistent and impressive commitment to this probiotic rich food.
Her chosen yogurt contained beneficial bacteria such as Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus Delbrueckii Subsp. Bulgaricus; These bacteria are known to promote growth Bifidobacterium In the intestine, the type of “good” bacteria that supports anti-inflammatory answers, better digestion and overall intestinal health. Interesting, Bifidobacterium Exactly decreases with age, but the M116 microbiome has shown an abnormally high level of this beneficial bacterium.
Telomeres
Despite her higher age, the M116 had very short telomers. The authors of the study are usually short telomeres are associated with aging diseases such as cancer or diabetes. However, the M116 remained extremely healthy, indicating that its telomeres acted more as a biological clock than a disease forecast.
Rarely genetic variants
The M116 DNA were rare genetic variants that probably contributed to its longevity. For example, variants of genes such as DSCAML1 and MAP4K3 have maintained a strong immune function and disease protection. Genes such as LRP1 and LRP2 were associated with cardiovascular health, and variants of genes such as NSUN5 and TTBK1 could help preserve its cognitive abilities.
Interestingly, she also lacked what is sometimes classified as “harmful” genetic variants, usually associated with a shorter life expectancy.
A strong immune system
Her immune system was a distinctive feature. While most people with age are experiencing a decline in immune function, the M116 immune cells have not shown the same progression. It had many cytotoxic T cells (which “fight” and cancer) and had little chronic inflammation, which was a major factor in healthy aging.
Effective lipid metabolism
M116 The body recycled fat extremely well. It had high “good” HDL cholesterol and low triglyceride and VLDL cholesterol. This effective lipid metabolism is often associated with a lower risk of heart disease and dementia.
Younger biological age
With advanced “epigenetic watches”, researchers found that the M116 biological age (how much cells “feel”) was much younger than its chronological age. In fact, her cells behaved as if they were 23 years younger than her true age. This cellular youthfulness probably contributed to her long and healthy life.
What are the restrictions on the study?
Although researchers have used advanced measures to analyze several layers of M116 biology and compare its data to large population studies, there are still some restrictions to consider the authors of the subjects. For example, although its telomere length was measured using a method called HT-Q-Fish, this analysis was performed in a mixed immune group, including various types of lymphocytes and monocytes. Because each of these types of cells has its own unique telomeres behavior, the results may not fully reflect the overall aging process of her body. In addition, although the study investigated the main aspects of aging, such as inflammation and immune function, other critical factors such as cellular aging (when cells stop sharing but do not die), and autophagia (natural cleansing process, cleaned cells). Finally, the study did not appreciate how the M116 lifestyle choice, such as exercise or specific eating habits, may have contributed to its longevity. Nor did it investigate whether certain medications or treatments directed at its unique biological features could further slow down or extend her life.
How does it apply to real life?
The history of the M116 offers valuable lessons for real life, showing that longevity is associated with genetics, although they really play a role. Longevity also depends on biology, lifestyle and environmental interaction. Although we cannot control our DNA, we can inspire some of its habits and biological features. For example, her daily use of yogurt, which seems to have maintained a healthy intestinal microbiome, emphasizes the importance of diet in maintaining overall health. Similarly, its low level of chronic inflammation reminds us how important it is to manage stress, stay active and eat anti -inflammatory food to protect against age -related diseases.
The study also emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to health. Researchers note that the M116 filled their days with regular walks, communicating with friends and family and enjoying their hobbies, such as playing piano.
Effective M116 metabolism, strong immune system and youthful biological age were probably the result of several factors that act together. Although we may not have access to advanced genetic insights or epigenetic watches, we can focus on small, consistent habits that promote overall well -being, such as normal exercise, balanced diet and being socially and mentally active. Her story is a reminder that while we cannot guarantee a 117 -year life expectancy, we can take steps to improve our health.
Our expert is taking
This study has been published Cell reports Gives a look at the secrets of longevity. Researchers found that her extraordinary life expectancy led to a combination of factors, including youthful intestinal microbiome, effective metabolism, low inflammation and strong immune system. Although her unique genetics played a role, her constant habits, such as eating three portions of yogurt daily, emphasize the impact of everyday choice on long -term health. These findings remind us that longevity is not related to one “magical” factor, but rather the interaction between biology, lifestyle and environment.
Read the original article about Eatingwell