USP research reveals genetic secrets of Brazilian supercentenarians who live beyond 110 years old
Researchers from Universidade of São Paulo (USP) published a study that highlights the role of Brazilian genetic diversity in extreme longevity. The work, published in the magazine Genomic Psychiatry, follows more than 160 centenarians, including 20 supercentenarians with a validated age above 110 years. Esses individuals have biological mechanisms that allow them to survive serious infections and maintain high functionality even at advanced ages.
The research points out that the country’s population mixing generates rare genetic variants, absent in more homogeneous populations. Essas variants contribute to robust immune responses and maintenance of efficient cellular systems.
Three supercentenarians from the cohort survived Covid-19 infection in 2020, before vaccines were available. Eles developed high levels of neutralizing antibodies and proteins linked to innate immunity.
Immune resilience at extreme ages
Supercentenarians maintain cellular housekeeping systems, such as autophagy and proteasomes, at levels comparable to those of much younger people. Essa ability prevents the accumulation of damaged proteins, associated with degenerative diseases.
The study observes the presence of CD4+ T cells with a “killer” function, which are rare in older individuals. Essas cells act in an adapted way to fight pathogens and possibly abnormal cells.
Genetic diversity as a key factor
Brasil has more than 8 million undescribed genomic variants in international databases. Muitas of them arise from the mixture of African, European, indigenous and Asian ancestries.
Researchers highlight that mixed populations reveal protective combinations invisible in homogeneous groups. The inclusion of Brazilians in global studies can accelerate advances in understanding healthy aging.
Families with long-living multiples
A Brazilian family includes a 110-year-old woman and three nieces aged 100, 104 and 106. Essa concentration reinforces that relatives of centenarians are 5 to 17 times more likely to reach advanced ages.
These cases illustrate the polygenic inheritance of resilience. The study suggests that genetic factors interact with the environment to promote extreme longevity.
Participants from different regions
The cohort includes individuals from various regions of the country, with varied social and cultural backgrounds. Muitos lived in areas with limited access to modern medicine, which highlights biological resilience independent of external interventions.
Supercentenarians remain lucid and independent in daily activities. An example includes a 106-year-old niece who was a champion swimmer at age 100.
Brazil in global rankings
The country is home to three of the 10 longest-lived male supercentenarians validated in the world. The oldest living man was born on October 5, 1912 and is 113 years old.
Among women, Brazilian supercentenarians are among the 15 longest-lived globally, surpassing nations like the Estados Unidos in proportion.
Importance for future research
The study advocates greater inclusion of mixed-race populations in international longevity consortia. Essa approach can identify protective variants and inspire interventions to modulate genetics.
Research continues with whole genome sequencing and functional analyses. Preliminary results indicate that extreme longevity involves immune adaptation and preserved cellular maintenance.
