Maria Branyas Morera, a supercentenarian from Spain, lived until the remarkable age of 117 before passing away last year. Her extraordinary life spanned two world wars, 21 American presidents, and technological revolutions that transformed daily existence.

Born in the United States in 1907, Maria moved to Catalonia in 1915 and remained there for the rest of her life. Before her death, she asked doctors to study her DNA in hopes that her longevity could help others live longer, healthier lives.

That wish led researchers from the University of Barcelona and the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute to examine her genetic and biological profile. Samples from Maria’s cells revealed striking results.

Dr. Manel Esteller, the principal investigator, told The Times: “The common rule is that as we age we become sicker, but she was an exception and we wanted to understand why. For the first time, we’ve been able to separate being old from being sick.”