People who live to age 100 and beyond often owe their exceptional longevity to a mix of protective genes and healthy habits. Researchers estimate that genetics account for as much as 50% of the ability to reach extreme old age, while lifestyle factors such as eating a plant forward diet, staying physically active through regular natural movement, and maintaining strong social relationships also play an important role. Although scientists have identified unique immune system traits in many centenarians, the metabolic changes associated with healthy aging have remained less clear.
A new study from the Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine has now identified a distinct pattern of blood metabolites in centenarians that appears to represent more than simply growing older. The researchers found that people who reached 100 years of age had unusually high levels of certain primary and secondary bile acids along with preserved levels of several steroids. These metabolic patterns differed from those seen during typical aging and were associated with a lower risk of death.
"Our study points to measurable chemical fingerprints in the blood that are associated with living a very long and healthy life. If we can understand those fingerprints, we may identify biological pathways that could contribute to protecting people from age-related decline," explains corresponding author Stefano Monti, PhD, professor of medicine at the school.
