Study of 117‑year‑old offers clues to longevity

Researchers led by Dr. Manel Esteller at the University of Barcelona analyzed biological samples from Maria Branyas Morera — who died at 117 years and 168 days — and report in Cell Reports Medicine that a mix of protective genetics and healthy habits (notably a Mediterranean diet and daily plain yogurt) likely contributed to her extreme, disease‑free longevity. The team sequenced genomic and microbiome markers from blood, saliva, urine and stool over a multiyear effort and found rare protective genetic variants and a gut microbiome enriched for beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium.