316 years combined: three Brazilian centenarian sisters studied for the secret of longevity

Three sisters from Brazil, whose combined age totals 316 years, have recently been declared by Guinness World Records as the world's oldest trio of sisters. They are now attracting the attention of researchers studying the mechanisms of longevity, according to Reuters.

The sisters in question are Zulina de Deus Nunes (103), Zoraide de Deus Mota (104), and Levita de Deus Nunes (109), all of whom live in Rio de Janeiro. They were identified by LongeviQuest, a global organisation that verifies longevity records and works in partnership with Guinness World Records.

The "DNA Longevo" Study

Their case is being examined as part of the "DNA Longevo" project, led by researcher Mayana Zatz from the University of São Paulo, who heads the Human Genome Research Centre. The study aims to identify the biological factors underlying ageing by comparing nonagenarians and centenarians with individuals who have developed frailty, cognitive decline, or chronic illness.

"Through DNA testing, we are looking for protective genes, and we already know that several such genes exist," said Mayana Zatz. "The more people in our study who are living beyond 100 — particularly within families with multiple centenarians — the more precise our research will be in identifying these genes," she explained.

Scientists believe that hereditary factors may play a more significant role than environmental influences in maintaining health and physical and cognitive function at advanced ages.

Genetics, but also community support

"When sisters reach this age, there is clearly a strong genetic component," said Ben Meyers, Chief Executive of LongeviQuest. "But, given that they live close to one another, they also benefit from a support network, with family able to help when needed. There is certainly a community aspect to this as well," he added.

The stories of the three sisters

The three sisters attribute their longevity to a healthy diet and an active lifestyle. Zulina recalled a childhood spent swimming and fishing in rivers: "Everything was fresh. We didn't have a refrigerator," she said. Zoraide added: "Breastfeeding is extremely important."

Otherwise, their lives have been fairly ordinary. Levita worked in crafts and later at a television station. Zoraide was a nurse and raised five children, whilst Zulina, a housewife, raised six.

Levita says she looks back without regrets: "I had a wonderful childhood and adolescence. I have nothing to complain about."

Researchers hope to understand how genetic factors, rather than lifestyle, contribute to protecting the heart, muscles, and cognitive function from the effects of ageing. "The aim of the study is to reach 500 centenarians, so that we can draw definitive conclusions about longevity," said researcher Joao Paulo Guilherme, a collaborator of Mayana Zatz.