As of January 18, 2023, Maria Branyas was recognized as the oldest person in the world, at 115 years and 320 days old. Born on April 4, 1907, in San Francisco, Maria moved to Spain at a young age and has resided there since. She has three children, one of whom has passed away, 11 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. Despite losing her three siblings and her parents, Maria remains active, particularly on social media, where she shares advice on longevity.
Maria attributes her long life to moderation in eating, good genetics, and maintaining a tranquil and orderly life surrounded by family and friends. She emphasizes the importance of good nutrition, particularly yogurt, emotional stability, avoiding stress and negativity, and staying positive. Despite losing agility in her fingers and being in a nursing home since the age of 92, Maria’s mind remains clear. She believes the secret to longevity lies in knowing what to forget, as remembering everything would make life impossible.
Abstract of Priority Research Paper:
A hallmark of eukaryotic aging is the loss of epigenetic information, a process that can be reversed. Previous studies have shown that the ectopic induction of Yamanaka factors (OCT4, SOX2, and KLF4) in mammals can restore DNA methylation patterns, transcript profiles, and tissue function without erasing cellular identity, a process requiring active DNA methylation. High-throughput cell-based assays have identified six chemical cocktails that can reverse cellular aging and rejuvenate human cells without compromising cellular integrity. These findings suggest that rejuvenation by age reversal can be achieved not only genetically but also through chemical means.
Cellular Aging and Epigenetics:
Genetic information is consistent across all cells throughout life, whereas epigenetic information varies between cells and changes in response to environmental factors. At least a dozen hallmarks of aging contribute to cellular deterioration. A decline in epigenetic information triggers events such as mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, and cellular senescence, leading to aging and age-related diseases. Cellular senescence, a state of permanent cell cycle arrest, helps in wound repair and cancer avoidance but also promotes inflammation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, contributing to age-related diseases.
Cellular Renewal and Longevity:
Research has identified cellular renewal mechanisms, such as lysosomal and digestive enzyme functions, that clear cellular debris through microautophagy and intracellular autophagy. The deterioration of lysosomes can lead to inflammation, but processes involving GABARAP and STK38 help maintain lysosomal integrity and prevent cellular deterioration. Japanese studies highlight the importance of these processes in slowing aging and maintaining cellular health.
The Role of Taurine:
Taurine, an amino acid found in dairy, meat, fish, and some seaweeds, plays an essential role in neurogenesis, immune function, and obesity management. Studies suggest taurine helps remove “zombie” cells that cause inflammation and improve various health markers. Active individuals with higher taurine levels showed better sugar level balance, increased bone density, and improved internal organ function. Foods high in taurine include shellfish, dark meat of turkey or chicken, whitefish, shrimp, octopus, squid, pork, beef, and tuna.