Key points from article :
Researchers from Chinese Academy of Sciences studied how some people live beyond 90 with fewer age-related diseases. These long-lived individuals, often found in places like Okinawa and Sardinia, stay healthier for longer and age more slowly. Scientists divided them into groups based on when they got sick—some never do, some delay it, and some survive after illness.
They found certain genes that seem to help, including APOE ε2 and FOXO3A, which protect the brain and heart. Mitochondrial DNA and genes that keep our chromosomes stable also play roles. These helpful traits often run in families, showing a genetic link to long life.
But genes aren’t everything. Epigenetic changes—how genes turn on or off—also matter. Long-lived people lose fewer chemical tags on their DNA with age, helping keep their cells stable. Special RNA molecules also help control cell aging and keep harmful changes in check.
Their metabolism is different too. They often have lower bad cholesterol, better insulin function, and more antioxidants in the blood. They also have better hormone balance and show traits similar to animals on low-calorie diets, which is known to extend life.
Their immune systems stay sharp and less inflamed. They have more of the good immune cells and fewer inflammatory ones. This keeps infections and chronic diseases away, even in very old age.
Finally, lifestyle matters. These people eat lots of plant foods, stay active, sleep well, and handle stress better. They usually don’t smoke, drink less, and live in clean, socially supportive environments. These habits add years and improve life quality.
This research was compiled from global studies on long-lived people. It was published in peer-reviewed journals by teams across various universities. The results suggest we can age better by mixing the right genes, habits, and healthcare advances. The study is published in the journal Frontiers of Medicine.
