From Psychologies · Guillaume Servant · · 1m 10s
Maria Branyas Morera's 117-Year Longevity Secret
Scientists found Maria Branyas Morera's microbiome resembles a child's, hinting at longevity secrets.
In brief
Scientists found Maria Branyas Morera's microbiome resembles a child's, hinting at longevity secrets. Maria Branyas Morera, who lived to 117, has a microbiome closer to a child's than an elder's, suggesting anti-inflammatory gut health boosts longevity. Originally reported by Psychologies.
Maria Branyas Morera's Longevity
Maria Branyas Morera, 117, lived to become the oldest person in the world, dying in August 2024.
“Elle a vécu jusqu’à 117 ans : les chercheurs ont découvert l’un des secrets de sa longévité”
Microbiome Closer to Child's
Her microbiome was surprisingly similar to a child's, not an elder's, according to a study in Cell Reports Medicine.
“le microbiote de la personne la plus âgée du monde, étonnamment proche de celui d'un enfant”
Biological Age Younger

Her biological age was up to 17 years younger than her chronological age in several tissues, showing a 'case apart' status.
“son âge biologique apparaissait jusqu'à environ 17 ans plus jeune que son âge réel”
Genetic Protection
She had genetic variants linked to better protection against cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic disorders.
“des variantes génétiques associées à une meilleure protection contre certains cancers”
Anti-Inflammatory Gut
Her gut contained high levels of Bifidobacterium, bacteria known for anti-inflammatory properties and strong intestinal barriers.
“Son intestin était riche en Bifidobacterium, un type de bactéries connu pour ses propriétés anti-inflammatoires”
Longevity Factors
Her diet included Mediterranean foods, daily yogurt consumption, and regular light exercise, avoiding tobacco and alcohol.
“une alimentation riche en fruits et légumes de type méditerranéen, et trois yaourts par jour”
What Happens Next
Scientists aim to study other supercentenarians to see if the same protective factors apply to those over 110.
“Leur ambition est désormais de suivre d'autres supercentenaires pour voir si l'on retrouve ce même trio gagnant”
The short version
Maria Branyas Morera, who lived to 117, has a microbiome closer to a child's than an elder's, suggesting anti-inflammatory gut health boosts longevity.





