Epigenetics is the study of how genes are turned on or off without changing the underlying DNA sequence. This process is influenced by various factors, including environmental conditions, lifestyle choices, and experiences. These changes can affect how cells read genes, leading to different traits or behaviors. One key mechanism in epigenetics is the addition of chemical tags to DNA or associated proteins, which can either promote or inhibit gene expression. These modifications can be temporary or long-lasting and may even be passed down to future generations, impacting the health and characteristics of offspring.