Summary of the Key Findings
The researchers conducted a comprehensive multiomics analysis—encompassing genomic, transcriptomic, metabolomic, proteomic, microbiomic, and epigenomic studies—on a supercentenarian (referred to as M116) who lived to the remarkable age of 117 years. Despite exceeding average life expectancy by over three decades, M116 remained in notably good health with no diagnosis of cancer, dementia, or other common, severe age-related illnesses. This extensive investigation shed light on the unique biological landscape that may enable some individuals to achieve exceptional longevity.
A major genetic insight emerged from a whole-genome sequencing effort. While M116’s chromosome ends (telomeres) were significantly shorter than those of younger individuals—a classic hallmark of aging—the overall genome held multiple rare or unique variants potentially protective against conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and neurological disorders. Another intriguing finding was the presence of clonal hematopoiesis, often considered a risk factor for malignancies and heart problems, yet M116 experienced none of these issues in her lifetime. These observations emphasize that conventional markers of aging do not always translate into corresponding diseases.
In-depth analyses of the supercentenarian’s blood and metabolic profiles revealed a pattern typically associated with low inflammation, efficient lipid metabolism, and cardiovascular health. Notably, M116 showed exceptionally high levels of “good” HDL-cholesterol and low levels of “bad” VLDL-cholesterol and triglycerides. Moreover, certain blood protein markers suggested strong immune and detoxification pathways. Although a few metabolic indicators suggested advanced physiologic age, the majority indicated a resilient bodily function rarely seen in individuals of such an advanced chronological age.
Investigations into M116’s gut microbiome supported this picture of robust health. Stool samples displayed an unusually high abundance of beneficial bacteria—particularly the genus Bifidobacterium, which is commonly linked to healthy digestion and reduced systemic inflammation. While these beneficial bacteria often decrease in older adults, their sustained prevalence in M116 could help explain her low inflammation levels and the efficient processing of lipids observed in her metabolomic assessments.
Finally, analyses of epigenetic markers, such as DNA methylation, revealed that many of M116’s tissues appeared biologically “younger” than what would be predicted by her chronological age. Multiple epigenetic “clocks” placed her closer to the range of a century-old individual rather than a 117-year-old. This suggests that exceptionally long-lived individuals may uncouple certain aspects of aging from pathological decline, demonstrating that extensive lifespan does not have to correlate with poor health. Overall, this multiomics study provides a detailed blueprint for understanding how some people may reach extreme longevity by simultaneously exhibiting markers of advanced age alongside a remarkably preserved, disease-resistant biology.