Maria Branyas Morera, who lived to the remarkable age of 117, may have held a key to exceptional longevity within her gut. Scientists at the University of Barcelona believe her unusual gut microbiome, resembling that of an infant, played a significant role in her long and healthy life.
Branyas, born in the U.S. in 1907, spent most of her life in Catalonia, Spain. A dedicated nurse, she worked alongside her physician husband, Joan Moret, until his passing in 1976. She moved to a retirement home in 2000, continuing to live a full life for decades more.
In January 2023, Guinness World Records recognized Branyas as the world’s oldest living woman. This recognition prompted geneticist Manel Esteller and his team at the University of Barcelona to study her. Their research revealed several factors contributing to her extraordinary lifespan.
Branyas possessed remarkable genetics that slowed her cellular aging. Researchers estimated her cellular age to be 17 years younger than her chronological age. Her lifestyle choices also played a crucial role. She abstained from alcohol and smoking, maintained a Mediterranean diet, engaged in regular walks, and enjoyed a rich social life with her three children, numerous grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Perhaps most intriguing was her unique gut microbiome. Esteller’s team discovered its composition mirrored that of infants. The gut microbiome, a complex community of bacteria residing in our digestive system, is increasingly recognized for its influence on various aspects of health. An imbalance in this community can contribute to numerous health problems.
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Branyas not only lived a long life, but she also enjoyed remarkable health, maintaining sharp cognitive function until her passing. She lived through two World Wars, the Spanish Civil War, and two pandemics, including a mild case of Covid-19. She finally passed away peacefully in her sleep in August 2024, at age 117.
While the exact mechanisms by which the microbiome influences health are still under investigation, and Branyas clearly benefited from a combination of factors, her case highlights its potential importance. Researchers hope further studies of long-lived individuals like Branyas will unlock insights that could improve health and longevity for everyone.
