What is special about the immune systems of Brazilian supercentenarians?

Brazilian supercentenarians have immune systems that renew and recycle cells efficiently, similar to much younger individuals.

How does Brazil's genetic diversity relate to longevity?

Brazil's rich genetic diversity, a result of early colonization, is believed to be a contributing factor to its high number of long-lived individuals.

Can the immune adaptations of Brazilian centenarians help others live longer?

Researchers are developing models to understand these protective mechanisms, aiming to extend healthy aging to the wider population.

Home / Science / Brazil's Centenarians: Supercharged Immunity Holds Longevity Key

Brazil's Centenarians: Supercharged Immunity Holds Longevity Key

11 Jan

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Summary

Brazilian supercentenarians have remarkably adaptive immune systems.
Their immune cells recycle proteins, mimicking those of younger individuals.
Genetic diversity in Brazil may contribute to widespread longevity.

Brazil's Centenarians: Supercharged Immunity Holds Longevity Key

Researchers have identified remarkable immune system adaptations in Brazilian supercentenarians, individuals living well beyond 100 years. These unique biological characteristics allow for efficient cellular renewal and protein recycling, effectively combating the cellular damage associated with aging and disease. This enhanced immune function helps prevent conditions such as heart disease, cancer, and dementia.

The study, involving over 140 centenarians and 20 supercentenarians, highlights Brazil's exceptional genetic diversity, a factor potentially explaining its high number of exceptionally long-lived individuals. The immune systems of these individuals demonstrated rapid adaptation, even successfully fighting off COVID-19 infections before vaccines were available, showcasing a resilience rarely seen in older populations.