The genes of the oldest person in the world are believed to be stored and studied in a research centre an hour from Perpignan. Since the death of the doyen of French humanity, Lucile Randon, on 17 January 2023 at the age of 118 years (and 340 days), the oldest person in the world is Catalan. A few kilometres from Barcelona, in Badalona (Catalonia), a team of researchers is studying her DNA to try to unravel the mysteries of her longevity.
Born on 4 March 1907 in San Francisco, María Branya, of Americo-Catalan origin, celebrated her 117th birthday this year in Olot, in the north of Catalonia, where she resides in a retirement home. Her genetic heritage has become the focus of all her research to discover the secrets of longevity.
A true “gold mine”, her genes are of great interest to a team of specialists in ageing, based at the Josep Carreras Institute, near Barcelona (Spain). In addition, the “Catalan super grandmother”, also a star on social networks, has “exceptional health for her age,” according to the experts. “We have discovered that her cells feel younger. She is 117 years old, but her cells think they are between 102 and 104,” they explained.
To reach such an advanced age and in good health, the dean has a robust DNA. “Many of her relatives lived more than 90 years,” said Manel Esteller, director of the Badalona research center. “She has an advantage thanks to her genes.” But her cells are not the only guarantors of her longevity: her lifestyle has also favored her longevity. “She has no toxic addictions such as tobacco or alcohol, and she does moderate physical activity. This has helped her to have good DNA chemistry.
“Her habit of eating yogurt every day could have slowed down the aging process,” the researchers said. Dairy products, the secret to a long life? For experts, one of the great secrets of longevity is related to the bacteria present in the intestines.
“The intestinal microbiota influences aging,” they recalled. The experts are convinced, despite the controversies about the consumption of dairy products, accused of promoting diabetes or of being one of the most frequent and strong causes of allergies. In addition, estimates by the gastrointestinal society Badgut place the world rate of intolerance to dairy products at 100%. lactose at about 65%.
It could also be that his Mediterranean diet, rich in olive oil and vegetables, has contributed to his longevity, as has his moderately active lifestyle. Indeed, experts are convinced that research into aging will make it possible to develop new drugs, such as pills that simulate the effects of sport when exercise is no longer possible. According to researchers, molecules could soon emerge to prevent diseases related to aging, such as cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases and even cancer.
These anti-aging “treatments” could soon see the light of day. In the United States, a first anti-aging remedy is currently being tested on dogs. Closer to home, in Valencia (Spain), research is being carried out on strange “mole rats”. These curious hairless animals are said to have the peculiarity of being able to hold their breath for 20 minutes. They are also said to be invulnerable to cancer. Although not eternal, this mammal is said to possess the “secret of eternal life”, according to experts. Eternal youth may soon no longer be the stuff of science fiction.
Source: lindependant.fr/2024/07/16/insolite-yaourts-et-huile-dolive-les-secrets-de-la-longevite-le-patrimoine-genetique-de-la-doyenne-catalane-etudie-a-une-heure-de-perpignan-12084874.php
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