Study of world’s oldest person reveals key to ageing well

• Scientists who studied the genome, gut health, and lifestyle of the world’s oldest person, who died in 2024 at age 117, have made a breakthrough in their understanding of longevity.
• They found that Maria Branyas Morera Morera's cells functioned as if they were about 17 years younger than her actual age, and her gut microbiome resembled that of a child, rich in anti-inflammatory bacteria.
• The American-Catalan Caucasian woman’s genome likely contained variations linked to a stronger immune system, reduced cancer risk, and heart disease protection, scientists say.
• Ms Morera's lifestyle included avoiding alcohol and smoking, going on daily walks, and enjoying a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and yoghurt.
• The study, which has not yet been peer reviewed, also found that Ms Morera had low levels of VLDL cholesterol and triglycerides, which are linked to heart disease.

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Gut health study of world’s oldest person reveals lifestyle key to longevity