She was born in 1907 in San Francisco to a Spanish family, and at the age of eight moved to Spain, where she spent the rest of her life. However, her story is important not only because of her impressive age – scientists believe that her body may provide valuable clues about how people could stay healthy longer.
Read more Trump announces historic agreement: «Hamas» agreed to disarm
A detailed study of her biology was published in the journal “Cell Reports Medicine,” writes “EatingWell.”
How was the study conducted?
To find out what made M116’s body special, scientists performed a so-called “multi-omics” analysis – a comprehensive study of biological processes using advanced technologies.
The researchers analyzed her DNA, proteins, metabolism, gut microbiome, and epigenetics – processes that determine how certain genes are activated or suppressed.
Samples of blood, saliva, urine, and feces were examined, and the results were compared with data from younger people and other long-lived individuals over 110 years old.
Scientists paid special attention to telomeres – protective chromosome ends that shorten as a person ages. The immune system, mitochondrial activity (the cell’s energy production centers), and gut bacteria were also analyzed.
This comprehensive approach allowed scientists to form a broader picture of which biological factors might have contributed to the exceptional lifespan of the woman.
What did the scientists find?
The study results showed that M116’s longevity was not due to a single “miraculous” gene or factor. Rather, it was a combination of many body traits – from gut bacteria to immune system function.
Younger gut microbiome
One of the most interesting findings was related to M116’s gut bacteria. Researchers found that her microbiome was similar to that of a much younger person.
The woman had a lot of Bifidobacterium bacteria – beneficial microorganisms associated with lower inflammation, better digestion, and a more favorable overall health condition.
Scientists believe this may have been influenced by her dietary habits. For the last 20 years of her life, M116 ate three servings of yogurt daily.
That means about 21 servings per week and roughly 1095 servings per year – a very consistent intake of a probiotic-rich product.
Her favorite yogurt contained beneficial bacteria such as Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus. These microorganisms can promote the growth of Bifidobacterium bacteria.
Interestingly, the amount of Bifidobacterium often decreases with age, but M116’s body had an exceptionally high amount.
Telomeres
Despite her very advanced age, M116’s telomeres were very short.
Usually, short telomeres are associated with age-related diseases such as cancer or diabetes. However, this woman remained extraordinarily healthy, so scientists believe her telomeres acted more as a biological clock rather than a direct indicator of disease risk.
Rare genetic traits
Rare genetic variants were found in M116’s DNA that may have contributed to her longevity.
Read more A stunning event in Asmik Grigorian’s life
For example, some variants of the DSCAML1 and MAP4K3 genes may have been linked to a stronger immune system and better protection against diseases. Other genes, such as LRP1 and LRP2, are associated with cardiovascular health.
It was also found that her body lacked certain genetic variants commonly associated with shorter lifespans.
Strong immune system
M116’s immune system also stood out.
While most people’s immune function weakens with age, this woman’s immune cells did not show such pronounced signs of aging.
She had many cytotoxic T cells – immune cells that help fight infections and cancer cells. Additionally, her body had a low level of chronic inflammation – one of the most important factors for healthy aging.
Efficient fat metabolism
Researchers also found that M116’s body processed fats very efficiently.
Her blood had a high level of HDL (“good”) cholesterol, while triglycerides and VLDL cholesterol levels were low. Such fat metabolism is often associated with a lower risk of heart disease and dementia.
Younger biological age
Using advanced epigenetic clocks, scientists determined that M116’s biological age was much lower than her actual age.
Her cells functioned as if they were about 23 years younger.
Study limitations
Although scientists used the most advanced analysis methods, the study has certain limitations.
For example, telomere length was assessed using a mixture of different immune cells, so the results may not fully reflect the aging processes of the entire body.
Moreover, the study did not thoroughly analyze some other important aging mechanisms, such as cellular senescence or autophagy – a natural body process that removes damaged cells.
Scientists also could not precisely evaluate how much her lifestyle – physical activity, specific dietary habits, or other daily choices – influenced her longevity.
What does this mean in everyday life?
M116’s story shows that longevity depends not only on genetics. A combination of biology, lifestyle, and environment plays an important role.
Although a person cannot change their DNA, some of her habits can be learned from. For example, daily yogurt consumption, which may have helped maintain a healthy gut microbiome, highlights the importance of diet for long-term health.
Her low level of chronic inflammation also emphasizes the importance of physical activity, stress management, and anti-inflammatory foods.
Researchers note that other important elements were present in M116’s daily life: she regularly walked, socialized with family and friends, and enjoyed hobbies such as playing the piano.
Scientists emphasize that a long and healthy life is unlikely to be the result of a single product or habit. Nevertheless, simple choices like a balanced diet, movement, social connections, and mental activity can help improve quality of life.
