 |
| the oldest woman in the world but I have NO health problems… now scientists think I may hold the key to immortality |
In a groundbreaking study, scientists are investigating the incredible life of 116-year-old Maria Branyas, originally from San Francisco, to reveal her secrets to a long and healthy life while aiming to develop cures for age-related diseases.
The centenarian, affectionately known as the 'Super Grandmother,' has not experienced any major health complications, except for hearing and mobility issues. Maria's incredible life journey includes surviving Covid-19 in 2020, as well as enduring the Spanish Civil War, a devastating US earthquake, and a major fire.
Her advice for a long and healthy life is simple: avoid "toxic people" and steer clear of "excesses." Despite her age, she has maintained zero cardiovascular problems and possesses an astonishing memory, recalling stories from as early as age four with incredible clarity.
Dr. Manel Esteller, a genetics expert and director of the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, has taken DNA samples from Maria, including saliva, urine, and blood. Dr. Esteller seeks to determine the extent to which her genes and lifestyle contribute to her longevity.
Maria Branyas, born in San Francisco in 1907 and returned to Spain as a child, attributes her long life to consuming natural yogurt daily and avoiding any strict diet or major illnesses. She shared her secret to a long life as "order, tranquility, good connections with family and friends, contact with nature, emotional stability, lots of positivity, and staying away from toxic people." However, she acknowledges the role of genetics and luck in her exceptional journey, a view supported by Dr. Esteller.
Dr. Esteller's research will analyze six billion segments of Maria's DNA, with a focus on 200 genes directly related to aging. The results will be compared with those from her middle daughter, who is 79 years old, and other family members who have also enjoyed long lives.
The ultimate goal of this research is to pave the way for the development of drugs capable of combating diseases typically associated with old age. Dr. Esteller hopes that insights from Maria's cells will provide new avenues for addressing neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases, as well as cancer, offering hope for a healthier and longer life for all.
Post a Comment