Doctors investigate DNA of 117-year-old woman to find one food that can unlock longer lives
Maria Branyas Morera’s life began in San Francisco in 1907 and stretched across 117 remarkable years — a span that saw two world wars, 21 U.S. presidents, and the rise of modern technology. At just eight years old, she moved with her family to Spain, where tragedy struck when her father died of tuberculosis during the journey. Yet Maria’s resilience carried her forward.
In her later years, she became known as the world’s oldest living person, admired not only for her longevity but for her sharp mind and gentle humor. Before her death in 2024, Maria made one final request: that her DNA be studied to help scientists uncover the biological keys to a longer, healthier life. Her wish set a groundbreaking project in motion, uniting researchers from the University of Barcelona and the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute.
Dr. Manel Esteller, who led the study, described Maria as “an exception to the rule,” noting that she managed to stay healthy even at extreme old age. “For the first time,” he said, “we’ve been able to separate being old from being sick.”