If Jeanne Calment Were 122, That Is All the More Reason for Biosampling

Abstract

This article discusses the need for biosampling as a way to test ''super-duper'' centenarians (persons aged >120 years) to identify biological pathways for Homo sapiens to live to their fullest biological lifespan potential (estimated by extreme value theory to be currently between 123 years and 128 years) and, by extension, the possibility of biosampling leading to the identification through scientific research testing and data analysis areas of potential life extension. Studies of twins have shown that the proportion of longevity attributed to heredity (genetic potential) versus environment increases substantially the higher the age group being tested, especially after age 75 years. Even among the oldest-old, the proportion attributed to biological factors continues increasing the higher the age category, which is a selective process as the genetically weaker of the remaining survivors continue to die off first, leaving a more and more highly selected remaining population. This self-selection process means that the very oldest individuals are already the ''genetic lottery winners'' who have the biological potential to come close to the maximum human lifespan. Testing of these persons may result in faster breakthroughs in the attempt to extend the human lifespan through biological testing and analysis. Indeed, it is possible that, just as some human lifespans are shortened due to random genetic mutations unique to the individual (such as persons with progeria), it is possible that there could be some humans whose maximum genetic potential was due in part to a genetic mutation unique to that particular individual. This remains an area of potential research that has not yet been thoroughly biotested-but one that could change soon, and biotesting a 122-year-old woman's biosamples would be a prime opportunity for such a test: Jeanne Calment. Because only one 122-year-old woman has been validated in recorded scientific history, the uniqueness of the case makes it a unique opportunity that should not be passed by. Herewith, I take a closer look at the Jeanne Calment case and the conclusion is the same as the start: Jeanne Calment was 122 years, her age is relatively unique but not impossible to repeat in the future; however, her samples may be available right now, and thus remains the only current opportunity to study a >120-year-old person from a biological perspective.