This study on Maria Branyas Morera, led by Manel Esteller, a genetics professor at the University of Barcelona, provided valuable insights into her longevity. Researchers found that Branyas's cells behaved as if they were 17 years younger than her actual age, and her microbiota resembled an infant’s. Maria lived to be 117 years old and attributed her longevity to genetics and lifestyle. These findings were significant in understanding the genetics behind longevity, as her lifestyle, which included a Mediterranean diet and regular physical activity, also contributed to her health. The detailed analysis of Branyas’s DNA and microbiome suggests a link between her genetic makeup and her minimal health issues despite her advanced age. The study aims to help develop treatments for age-related illnesses by providing a deeper understanding of how genetics can influence aging processes.
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| Posted by Bioethics Pundit |
Cells behave differently based on age due to various biological and molecular changes. Young cells have a higher capacity for division and repair, which diminishes with age as telomeres shorten, limiting cellular division. Younger cells also maintain more efficient protein production, crucial for cell maintenance and repair, whereas this process becomes less efficient in older cells, leading to damage accumulation. Mitochondrial function, key for cellular energy, declines with age, contributing to reduced energy production and increased oxidative stress. Older cells are more likely to become senescent, ceasing to divide but not dying, and can negatively impact surrounding cells by secreting inflammatory factors. Additionally, the ability to repair DNA damage effectively decreases with age, leading to mutations and cellular dysfunction. Autophagy, the process of removing damaged organelles and proteins, is more active in younger cells, helping them maintain functionality by clearing out damaged parts, a process that is less efficient in older cells. These age-related changes contribute to the overall aging process and influence the development of age-related diseases.
Links:
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/mar/13/supercentenarian-aging-genes-study
https://www.fightaging.org/archives/2013/06/enumerating-the-differences-between-old-and-young-stem-cells/
It is really interesting how finding out about these aging processes could help develop better treatment for age related diseases. It is also important to note that without a being mindful about how you live, these treatments might not make any difference, but a healthy lifestyle could work side by side with these treatments for a longer life.
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